Full text of "A history of the old town of Stratford and the city of Bridgeport, Connecticut"

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A H ISTO R Y

OF THE

I^XH fTalntl

STRATFORD

AND THE CITY OK

BRIDGEPORT

CONNECTICUT.

Rev. SAMUEL ORCUTT,

AUTHOR OF THE HISTORIES OF WOLCOTT, TORRINGTON, NEW MILFORD,
DERBY AND INDIANS OF THE HOUSATONIC VALLEY.

PART I.

PUBLISHED UNDER THE AUSPICES OF THE

FAIRFIELD COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY.

1886.

PRESS OF TUTTLE, MOREHOUSE & TAYLOR,
NEW HAVEN, CONN.

PREFACE.

HE task of making this book, such as it is, is
ended. The work upon it as the history of
one of the oldest towns in the State, includ-
ing one of the youngest and most pros-
perous cities, has been very attractive and
entertaining, and the only regret the author
has concerning it is that the income from the
sale of the work would not pay for another year's labor, by
which a degree of completeness, somewhat satisfactory,
might have been attained. This is especially applicable to
the genealogies, which in their present state are only the
beginning of what might have been secured ; which is true,
after all the gratuitious labor, put upon them for several
years, contributed by the Rev. B. L. Swan, formerly pastor
in Stratford, Bridgeport and Monroe, in which he collected
a large amount of historical facts which have made the work
much more complete than it otherwise would have been.

The author has also profited yqvj much from the re-
search and historical collections made, during many years
of thoughtful gathering by R. B. Lacey, Esq., Major W.
B. Hincks and George C. Waldo, Esq. Many items which
they had gathered were as seed producing a hundred fold,
when improved. This is particularly true of Mr. Lacey as to
his collections and memory concerning old Stratfield Soci-
ety and the city of Bridgeport, and the public are to be con-
gratulated upon the fact that this part of the book was written
largely under his eye, while yet his memory was in its sun-

i V Preface.

niest noontide and his physical strength nothing abated.
It is also probable that but for his interest in the matter of
local history, this work would not have been commenced,
and certainly without his counsel and aid at various points
in its progress it would have been very difficult to have
gone on with the work to its completion.

The aid received by the most cordial and continuous
commendatory support of the Fairfield County Historical
Society, and the financial support rendered by several of
its members, have been, not only greatly helpful to the
work, but without these the enterprise would have gone
no further than the publication of the first one hundred
and eighty pages. Much cordial friendly aid has been
rendered by the town clerks, Mr. Henry P. Stagg of
Stratford, and Mr. Daniel Maloney of Fairfield, they hav-
ing spared no effort for the success of the work.

The author has great pleasure in acknowledging the
honor and value bestowed upon the work by those persons
who have contributed illustrations to it, especially the steel
plate prints, which are first-class in respect to the art of en-
graving and of very great satisfaction in such a historical book.
It is due also to say that, with a few exceptions of no
particular importance, whatever errors may be found in
the book the fault lies with the author and not with the
proof-readers at the office of publication.

It is a matter of some considerable satisfaction that
such a memorial work, although costing the untiring effort
of three years of most diligent labor, however imperfect it
ma)' be, is a realized fact.

The Author.

CONTENTS.

Chapter

I-

Chapter

II-

Chapter

III-

Chapter

IV-

Chapter

V-

Chapter

VII

Chapter

VIII

Chapter

IX-

Chapter

XII-

Chapter

XIII-

Chapter

XIV-

Chapter

XV-

Chapter

XVI-

Chapter

XVII

Chapter

XVIII

Chapter

XIX

Chapter

XXI-

Chapter

XXII-

Chapter

XXIII-

Chapter

XXIV-

Chapter

XXV-

Chapter

XXVI-

-Stratford Indians,
-Indian Deeds and Reservations,
-Indian Deeds, Wars and Relics,
-Cupheag Plantation,
-The First Planters,
-The First Planters (continued),
-Conflicts, Wars, Witchcraft,
-The Church of Christ in Stratford,
-Progress Amidst Difficulties, .
-New Settlers and Enterprises,
-Pushing into the Wilderness,
-Beginning the Eighteenth Century,
-Eighteenth Century (continued),
-Ecclesiastical Progress .
-The Revolutionary War, . .•
-After the War,
-Stratfield Society,
-Stratfield's Early Settlers.
-The Borough of Bridgeport, .
-Ecclesiastical History,
-The City of Bridgeport, .
-The City of Bridgeport (continued),

-Huntington

-The Town of Trumbull, .
-The Town of Monroe,
-Stratford Concluded,
Genealogies

Page
I

84
107

J37
164
181

239
269
292
314
347
370
404
465
504
585
620

693
796

955
1007
1083
1097
1115

STEEL PLATES.

George B. Hawley,
Isaac Sherman,
Nathaniix Hewit,
John Brooks
Alfred Bishop,
Nathan Buckingham, .
Hanford Lyon,
Wheeler & Wilson Compan
Nathaniel Wheeler, .
I. DeVer Warner,
Eaton, Cole and Burnham
Frederick W. Parrott,
Julius W. Knowlton,
James W. Beardsley,
Daniel N. Morgan,
Phineas T. Barnum,
William H. Noble,
E. Ferris Bishop, .
Robert Hubbard, .
William B. Hall,
Alfred C. Hobbs,
Rowland B. Lacey,
Henry R. Parrott,
Sidney B. Beardsley,
Philo C. Calhoun,
Civilian Fones,
Jacob Kikfer,
David B. Lockwood,
James Staples,
William H. Stevenson,
Thomas J. Synnott,
Curtis Thompson,
Russell Tomlinson,
Amos S. Treat.
Thomas L. Watson,
Andrew L. Winton,
Nathaniki. S. Wokdin,
Thomas C. Wordin,
Peter W. Wren, .
Thomas Punderson,
Plumb N. Fairchild,
John W. Sterling,

Com

Page
536
594
648
650
696
708
716
724
728
740
764
766

774
800
806
840
856
862
868
869
872
892
896
900
902
904
906
908
910
912
914
918
920
922

923
924
926
928
930
998
1060

ENGRAVINGS ON WOOD.

Page

Falls Mountain 26

Warhaumaug's Monument, 28

Junction of Housatonic and Naugatuck, ... 33

Indian Field, at New Milforu, 37

William Sherman, 42

Stratford Village Lots, 105

Stratford Village, First Lois, 185

Pews in the Stratford Episc. Church 352

Interior, Cong. Church, Stratford, . . . . 411

Log-House of 1665 466

Historic Oak, Bridgeport, 468

Stratfield Second Meetinghouse, 482

Porter Property, 489

Old Mile Stone, 521

Bridgeport First Bank . 596

Bridgeport Second Bank 598

United Bank Building 606

Bridgeport's First Churches, 632

First Cong. Church, Bridgeport 638

Silver Tankard, 640

Second Cong. Church, Bridgeport, 644

St. Augustine's Church 668

High School Building, 682

Public School Buildings 684

Plan of School Buildings, 686

Public Library Building, 689

Map of Bridgeport, 1824 692

Elias Howe, Jr 735

Howe Machine Company 737

Warner's Manufactory, 740

Residence of Doct, Warner 742

Enoravinos on Wood.

Bridgeport Knife Company,
Bridgeport Organ Company,
Pembroke Iron Foundry.
Bridgeport Burnt District,
Seaside Park,
People's Savings Bank,
Bridgeport Savings Bank, .
Connecticut Bank,
Monumental Bronze Company,
Atlantic House, .
Elm House, ....
Evening Post Building,
Bridgeport Hospital, .
Gate of Mt. Grove Cemetery.
Iranistan, ....
Royal Honors to Tom Thumb,
Tom Thumb before the Queen,
Castle Garden,
Elephant Ploughing, .
Marriage of Tom Thumb, .

Waldemere

Barnum's Winter Quarters,

East Bridgeport, .

Telford Premium,

Residence of F. J. Lockwood,

Sterling Residence (Heliotvpe)

Residence of Israel Beach,

Residence of Elias Welles,

Page

748

754
758
769
796
802
804
808
813
S18
818
825
834
836
S38
842
S42
844
844

850

852

886

908

1 102

II 24

1329

ERRATA.

Page 20 and 157 — C. " H." Hoadley should be C. J. Hoadlev.

Page 152 — Bottom of the page the date " 1662." should be 1692.

Page 157 — " Winfield " Benham should be Winifred and her daughter Winifred.

Page 135 — " Robert," should be Thomas Tomlinson.

Page 223 — Rev. "Jackson," should be Rev. Joshua and Sarah Leavitt.

Page 226 — The name " Patterson" should be Batterson.

Page 390 — Mrs. Benjamin Fairchild died 1874, aged 88.

Page 454 — The Lasper K. " Whitney" should be Whiting.

Page 454 — J. W. " Dufow," should be Dufour.

Page 454 — The name " Hendric" should be Hendee.

Page 454 — Lasper K. " Whitman," should be Whiting.

Page 455 — " A. W." Lewis, should be W. A. Lewis.

Page 505 — Under the title Benjamin Hubbell should read, Polly, who m. Gale

Ensign and had Howell.
Page 535 — ^The record should be Abigail Hurd, not " Rebecca."
Page 550 — " Charles H." should be Charles R. Brothwell.
Page 601 — I2lh line from bottom " 1692 " should be 1792.
Page 627 — Thaddeus "Barr" should be Burr.
Page 642 — " Billings," should be Phillips Academy.
Page 675 — "Harwinton" should be Rev. Daniel Harrington.
Page 704 — The title should be Parallel Railroad Company, and H. R. Parrott,

president of the company as well as of the directors.
Page 754 — "Griffin" should be Grippin.
Page 721 — " Northnagle " should be Nothnagle.
Page 791 — "Both sides of Wall and State" should be both sides of Bank and

State streets.
Page 1 166 — Brown, Dea. "Isaiah," should be Josiah.
Page 1247 — L. N. Middlebrook was graduated in 1848, not " 1828."
Page 125 r — The name Nicoll, should be Nicolls, making it Sir Richard Nicolls ;

but on page 1258, the name is correct as Nicoll.

HISTORY OF STRATFORD.

CHAPTER I.

STRATFORD INDIANS.

NDIAN history, under whatever circum-
^.^ stances found, excites a melancholy sympa-
thy, which partakes of extreme loneliness as
if one were lost in an interminable wilder-
ness from which there could be no escape
by the ingenuity or power of man. As we
pass over the site of their ancient wigwams,
although not a stick or stone is left to mark
the place, we seem to be traveling amid the
ruins of some ancient Persian or Egyptian
city, long celebrated for its beauty and mag-
nificence and from which, although the glory
has all faded or crumbled to dust, we hesi-
tate to depart, as though expecting still to
see the forms of the long-departed coming
forth to newness of life, to exhibit the wonders of ancient
days. Occasionally we discover about traditional localities,
some stone implement, arrow-head, pestle or axe, that seems
as a spirit resurrected by enchantment to portray the marvel-
ous, wild life that wrought it, for the severest needs of earth,
which is like the recovery of some long-lost painting of
kingly banquet or national pride and glory. The hatchet,
although of stone, was the Indian's ensign of renown ; the
bow and arrow, his national flag of wild but unconquerable
liberty, and his tent, because it was not immovable, declared

2 History of Stratford.

an inheritance in a vast continent ralher than a few circum-
scribed acres of walled distributions.

Sometimes the rolling waters of a mighty river, or the
heights of immense mountain ranges barred his progress for
a time, but no mountain was too high and no valley too low
for the unwearied feet of the Red man in the greatness ot
his freedom and the inexhaustible resources of his physical
strength. Nothing but the mighty ocean ever stayed his
wandering footsteps, until the. white man took possession ot
the rocky and sandy shores of the Algonkin country, after-
wards called New England; when "the poor Indian" fled to
the inland wilderness as if pursued by a devastating pesti-
lence ; nor has he yet, after nearly three hundred years, found
a sure resting place. To him the shores of Long Island
Sound were an enchanted countr}-, in the abundance it gave
to supply his wants, and the beauty of its climate and scener}'
reminding him of the native tropical clime of his ancestors.

Here on these shores he had dwelt man}- ages, when the
glittering sails of the white man came bearing the pilgrim
planters to their new life of freedom. In the winter many of
them had retired to the sheltered valleys of the inland wilder-
ness, where they secured their dail)' food by the hunter's
sport, and then in the spring they returned to their old sea-
side haunts, just as their white successors now, in the same
season of the year, fiee from the hot breath of the inland val-
leys to the cool breezes of the New England coast. These
" children of the wilderness " have been called " Red men,"
*' wild Indians," " savage beasts," but with all, they have
exhibited a manliness of character and rectitude of life, ac-
cording to the instructions received, that leaves no room for
boasting by those who now inhabit the same beautiful coun-
try. To these untutored inhabitants the pilgrim immigrants
were rather unceremoniously introduced, and to them in
turn they gave a cordial welcome, nol knowing what the final
result would be. And now, after the lapse of ages, the pen
of the historian is importuned for some memorial record,
which, although inadequate to the object sought, shall be as
a brief epitaph to commemorate the greatness of those, of
whom there is now nothing but ashes and fragments left.

Pootatuck River. 3

On the shores of Long Island Sound various clans or
settlements of these Indians were found by the incoming-
English, which belonged to the same general class, — the M07
hicans, the name having been localized or modified to Mohe-
gans in the south-eastern part of the state. Those on the
Housatonic river appear to have retained a system of general
government, with head-quarters at New Milford, and when
their lands further south had been sold they gradually re-
turned thither, and thence to Scatacook and to Pennsylvania.
Tradition and implements found, indicate that at first the
Indians came from the Hudson river — the Mohicans — to the
valley of the Housatonic in the vicinity of the town of Kent,
and finding several falls in the river, to them of unusual
grandeur, they named it Pootatuck, meaning ' falls river.'
This was the only name to the river when the first white set-
tlers came, and those natives inhabiting its valley, were the
Pootatuck Indians,' but being settled at that time in quite
large numbers at various places, were spoken of by their
local names. There are also evidences that these local clans
retained the general name of Mohegan Indians, speciall}-
as this is the tradition now among the intelligent survivors
of all these clans.

The first Indian settlement on this river, south of the
Massachusetts line, seems to have been in the southern part
of Kent, near what is now called Bull's Bridge, and after-
wards, two or three miles north where a few families still
reside. This locality they named Scatacook, or Schaghti-
coke, signifying the confluence of two streams,^ which is true
where what is now called Ten Mile River comes into the
Housatonic a little below Bull's Bridge.

The second settlement was made, probably, at New Mil-
ford, called Weantinock, which remained the capital, or place
of the great council-fire for the whole tribe (or all the clans)
on the river, until that territory was sold to the New Milford
company in 1703. Thus gradually the Indians made their

' Indians of the Housatonic Valley, 6 to 12.

^ See Indian Names of Conn., by J. H. Trumbull, and Indians of the Housa-

4 History of Stratford.

settlements down the river until they reached Long- Island
Sound ; and afterwards they dwelt on the Sound more largely
in the summer than in the winter on account of fish, oysters
and clams, and of the hunting inland in the winter.

The CupJieags and Pequannocks.

When the English first came to Stratford they found
there a settlement of Indians, their local name being Cuph-
eags, the name denoting 'a harbor' or 'a place of shelter,'
literally, ' a place shut in.'' The clan was small, and was
governed by Okenuck, who soon after, if not at that time,
resided at Pootatuck — now Shelton — whither his people re-
moved soon after Stratford village was settled. Okenuck
was the son of Ansantaway of Milford, and his brother
Towtanimow, son of Ansantaway, was sachem or chief at
Paugasitt.

The name Pequannock^ means 'cleared field,' land
'opened' or 'broken open,' and was applied by the Indians
to the tract of land on the east side of Uncaway river (which
river is now called Ash creek) extending northward to the
old King's Highway and southward to the Sound, including
two or three hundred acres of land, on which were probably
several pieces of a kind of open woods, as well as the Indians'
planting ground. This name was not applied to the water
now called Pequannock river, but to the beautiful plain as
above described and now constituting the western portion of
the city of Bridgeport. On this plain " at the north end of
the cove in the Black Rock harbor" was the old Indian
planting field, limited to about one hundred acres, and on this
field was the old Indian Fort, standing near the end of the
cove where now is the flower garden of Mr. James Horan.
In 1752, the General Assembly in describing the boundaries
of the Stratfield Society gives the precise location of this
fort.'

' Indian Names, J. H. Trumbull.
* Indian Names, J. H. Trumbull.

*" General Court, October, 1752. Whereas, in the setting oif the parish of
Stratfield, it so happened that the act of this Assembly setting off said parish did

The PequiDuiock Indians. 5

The Pequannock Indians were more numerous than any
other clan from New London west, on the shore of the Sound.
They had three encampments or villages of wigwams; one
on the west bank of the Unco way river, as we may hereafter
see in the testimony of Thomas Wheeler, one at the Old
Fort, and one at the foot of Ciolden Hill on the south side;
the last, some years later; is said to have contained about one
hundred wigwams. The one on the west side of Uncoway
river was at the head of a cove near a fresh water pond, just
south of the old King's Highway, and a few rods west of the
mile-stone which is standing one mile east from Fairfield vil-
lage, on that old highway, south of which the Indians had a
planting field which afterwards constituted a part of the terri-
tory called by the first settlers the Concord field. This place
we are told in a future chapter by Thomas Wheeler, was the
old established place of i-esidence for the Sachem of the
Pequannock tribe many generations.

There seems to have been, at first, no reservations of land
for the Indians at Cupheag, or Stratford village, and none
elsewhere in the town except at Golden Hill, and this was
not measured to them until twenty years after the first set-
tlers came, or until 1659. The planting ground at the Old
Fort, in the edge of Fairfield, was retained by the Indians as
their planting ground until 168 1, when it was sold, and after
that the field at the Old Fort was called the Old Indian field,
and is so referred to frequently on the Fairfield records.

Stratford and Fairfield Conquered and Ceded Territory.

It appears by various authorized records, that the terri-
tory of Stratford and Fairfield was not at first purchased of

not settle and fix the line dividing between the said first society and said parish
any nearer the south-westerly extent of both said societies than where said line
intersects the country road [the King's highway] near Jackson's mill, so-called
[now, 1884, Moody's mill] . . . which line runs from said country road southerly
as the river or creek runs on which Jackson's mil! stood, commonly known by
the name of Uncoway River or creek, till it comes due west from the north end
of the cove in the Black Rock harbor, which said cove heads or terminates at, or
near the place called the Old Fort, and then to run straight from said creek to the
head of said cove, and so straight to the sea or Sound." Col. Rec, x. 147.

6 History of Stratford.

the Indians, as has been asserted by all historians, but was
held nearl}' twenty years as conquered and ceded territory,
and so declared by the General Court, but afterwards, as a
matter of friendliness to the Indians, was purchased by vari-
ous agreements and deeds.

At the time the whites came, Oueriheag was Sachem ot
the Pequannocks, with his dwelling-place on the west side of
Uncoway river, but a large part of his people were dwelling
on the east side of that river — at the " old field " and at the
foot of Golden Hill.

The settlements of Stratford and Fairfield were com-
menced under the supervision of the Connecticut, in distinc-
tion from the New Haven C(;lony, and the territory was
granted to them b}' the General Court to which the Indians
had previously given it in regular form in 1638. On neither
of the town records are there any Indian deeds recorded
earlier than 1656, and in 1681 when all former deeds are men-
tioned in the final sale, no reference is made to any as having
been given earlier than 1656. Nothing is said in the records
in regard to the purchase of this territory, until 1656, when
we find the following statement made by the court at Hart-
ford :

" This Court, at the request of Stratford, do grant that
theire bounds shall be 12 myle northward, by Paugusitt
River, if it be att the dispose, by right, of this Jurisdiction."^

This action of the Court was soon proclaimed, and the
Pequannock Indians denied the right of Stratford to the ter-
ritory as thus described, as the Court intimated would prob-
ably be the case. The immediate cause for the desire that
the Court should hx the boundary of the Stratford plantation,
was the fact that a tract of land had just been sold by the
Indians in the western part of Fairfield, and considerable
trouble had arisen between the settlers and the Indians, in
consequence of the cattle and swine of the whites trespassing
on the Indians' corn at Pequannock. One item is thus re-
corded :

"General Court, October, 1651. Upon the complaint of
the Deputies of Stratford to this Court, in behalf of Richard

« Col. Rec, i. 281.

Stratford Bounds. 7

Buttler, against an Indian named Nimrod, tliat wilfidl}' killed
some swine of said Buttler's, this Court consenteth that Mr.
Ludlow may prosecute the said Indian according to order
made by the commissioners in that respect.'"

Another reason for this desire by the Stratford planters
was that the Indians being quite numerous at Fairfield, the
settlers there were pushing them over on the Stratford terri-
tory as much as possible to make room for themselves, as was
acknowledged afterwards. There had been several efforts
made b}' the General Court to settle the boundaries between
Stratford and Fairfield and the Indians at Pequannock com-
mencing'soon after these places began to be settled; and
also it is shown that these Indians having agreed to pay
tribute to the Connecticut Court, as conquered and protected
subjects, as appears from the records, neglected to fulfill their
agreement.

" General Court, February, 1640. It is ordered that Mr.
Haynes, Mr. Wells, and Capt. Mason shall go down to Paqua-
nucke to settle the bounds betwixt them and the plantations
on both sides of them, according as they judge equal, as also
to hear and determin the difference betwixt the inhabitants
of Cupheag amongst themselves. They also with Mr. Lud-
low, are to require the tribute ot the Indians about those
parts that is behind unpaid, due by articles formerly agreed
upon, as also to inquire out the particular Indians that are
under engagement, within the limit of the ground belonging
to them, and upon refusal, to proceed with them as they shall
see cause.'" The next June the Court ordered that "the
mapfistrates shall send for the tribute of the Indians about
Cupheag, Uncoway and there about," and that another com-
mittee should survey between the two plantations. Again in
General Court, 1648: "It is ordered, that Capt. Mason shall
go to Long Island and to such Indians upon the mayne as are
tributaries to the English, and require the tribute of them,
long behind and yet unpaid, and to take some strict and
righteous course for the speedy recovering thereof, and it is

•> Col. Rec, i. 226. ^ Col. Rec, i. 62.

8 History of Stratford.

judged equall and allowed that he shall have the one-half for
his paynes."

Not onl}^ did the Indians neglect to pay their tribute, but
they committed depredations in many ways and manifested
so much hostilit}^ from 1643 to 1655, that the plantations on
different occasions kept soldiers on watch nights and Sun-
days, and at several times called out the militia. Also, the
Indians made continued trouble by their demands for pay for
their lands, for after the Court had given its decision, in 1656,
the Milford Indians made a claim to some of the land within
the Stratford territory. Ansantawa}' was chief then at Mil-
ford, and he gave a deed^ for all the land his people claimed
on the west side of the Housatonic river, and leaves the Eng-
lish to give him whatever they should see fit, thus indicating
that his claim had but little real merit.

In order to secure satisfaction among the Indians, and
quiet to their English neighbors, the Connecticut Colony
made another effort to settle the matter among all parties, by
the following order:

"Hartford, March 7, 1658-59. By the Court of Magis-
trates. This Court having taken into consideration>the busi-
ness respecting the Indians pertayning to the plantations of
Stratford and Fayrefeyld and finding in the last agreement
made with the Indians while Mr. Willis and Mr. Allin were

* Ansanta-May' s Deed to Stratford.

"This present writing declareth, we Ansantawaj' and my wife do make over
and alienate unto the Inhabitants of Stratford all our right in a tract of land being
as far as the River called the further milne river by Woronoke and westward as
far as the bounds of us our Paugusit Indians lies, with the English of the afore-
sayd Town and mark the trees as our bounds did goe before it was alienated to
the English as abovesayd. We also do engadge that no other Indians shall l<ay
any charge unto any of the aforesayd lands, and'we doe leave it to the town afore-
sayd to give us for this land as they shall see good and meet. And we doe give
free liberty for the aforesayd Town their cattle to go beyond that further milne
River northward and north-west as they did, peaceably and quietly; we and Pau-
gusit Indians doe thus agree as witness our hands in the name of the rest. This
Febu. 22, 1658."

The recorder of this deed says: " This is a true copy of a bill of sale signed
by Ansantaway, his wife and Towtanamy the chief Sagamore," but he was mis-
taken, for he did not transcribe the Indian names, for the deed is without any sig-
natures.

New Indian Papers. 9

down there, that those two plantations aforementioned are
ingaged to asure and alow unto those respective Indians per-
tayning to each town sufitient land to plant on for their
subsistance and so to their heayres and sucsessors :

" It is therefore ordered by this Court, and required that
each plantation forementioned exercise due care that the
agreement made by the magistrates be fully attended without
unnecessar}' delay, that so the Indians may have no just
cause to compla3'ne agaynst the English, but rather may be
incouraged to attend and observe the agreement on their
parts, that peace may be continued on both sides ; and further
it is desired that the Indians may be allowed to improve
theire antient fishing place which they desire.

" To the Constables of Stratford to be forthwith published
and sent to Fayrfiyld to be published and recorded by the
Register.'""

Three days after the above record the Court took further
action :

" March 10, 1658-59. This Court having considered the
agreement with the Indians as also for other reasons as par-
ticularly that which the town of Fayrfe3'ld pleaded why their
bounds should be enlarged was because they might provide
for theire Indians which were many, do therefore order that
the towne of Fayrfeyld shall forthwith attend the order as
above sent from the magistrates and alow and lay out unto
theire Indians that formerly did and now do belong unto
that plantation, sufitient planting land for the present and
future, that so there may be no disturbance twixt the Indians
and the town of Stratford about any former improprieties
which we find are renownced for the future by the last agree-
ment. And the Court judges that the Indians that have for
so many and several years been inhabitants of Fayrfeyld
bounds shall now and for future be acounted as those that do
properly belong to that plantation.

" Mr. Camfield and the deputies of Norwoke are apointed
to see this efected by Fayrfeyld men or do it themselves.

Daniel Clarke, Secretary."

'° Stratford Records.

lO History of Stratford.

About a month later a paper vv^ns recorded giving the
agreement made between the two towns as above referred to.

The great hindrance in settling the boundaries between
these two plantations and the Indians was the open or cleared
land on the east side of what is now called Ash Creek, form-
erly Uncoway River. It was good soil, and probably much
of it cleared besides the portion which the Indians had
planted for many years, called afterwards the Indian field.
This is revealed in part by a paper from John Strickland,"
giving the reason that Fairfield wanted more room, and so
desired the Indians pushed over east on Stratford territory,
but the old line was retained while a tract of land was set oft
for the Indians on Golden Hill, and they retained their old field
at the head of Black Rock Cove until 1681, when they sold it
to Fairfield. There were, probably, several hundred acres of
partially cleared land, now constituting the western part of
the city of Bridgeport and Sea-Side Park, of which the
Indian field containing about one hundred acres, with their
fort, formed a central part.

In the spring of 1659, the question of title or right to the
land in the plantations of Stratford and Fairfield was brought
before the General Court at Hartford and settled. The
Indians agreed that if the English could prove that they had
received the land by purchase, gift or conquest, it should be
theirs; w^hereupon a number of men gave their testimony in
writing under oath on the subject, and the Court decided in
favor of the plantations, and the affidavits were recorded in
the town book, and they are here produced in foot-notes
because of various items of historical interest. These papers
are prefaced on the records with the statement: "A Rec-

" The Testimony of John Strickland. " I John Strickland, of Huntington
Long Island having formerly lived at Uncoway now called Fayrfeyld do remem-
ber that I was deputed with some others to treat with Stratford men about the
bounds of those towns and accordingly we mett, we of Uncoway desired some
inlargement of our bounds towards Stratford because we were burdened with
many Indians, and to my best remembrance it was by Stratford men granted and
by us all concluded that we of Uncoway should keep our Indians upon our own
bounds. John Strickling, his mark.

April 23. 1659.

Taken upon oath before me. Thomas Benedict."

New Indian Papers. 1 1

ord of several letters presented to the Court of Hartford,
whereby together with other evidences the town of Stratford
proved, and the Court granted a clear right to their land
in reference to Paquannock Indians with whom they had
to do."

The first paper is by the Rev. John Higginson," of Guil-

is " ^ Testimony of Mr. Higison late pastor of the church at Guilford.

" Being desired to expose wt I remember concerning the transaction between
the English at Conneckticott and the Indians along the Coast from Ouilipioke to
the Manhatoes about the land, the substance of it I can say is briefly this :

" That in the beginning of the year 163S, the last week in March Mr. Hop-
kins and Mr. Goodwin,* being employed to treat with the Indians and to make
sure of that whole tract of land in order to prevent the dutch and to accommodate
the English who might after come to inhabit there, I was sent with them as an
interpreter (for want of a better) we having an Indian with us for a guide, acquainted
the Indians as we passed with our purpose and went as far as about Narwoke
before we stayed. Coming thither on the first day we gave notice to the Sachem
and the Indians to meet there on the second day that we might treat with them all
together about the business. Accordingly on the second day there was a full
meeting (as themselves sayd) of all the Sachems, old men and Captaynes from
about Milford to Hudson's River. After they had understood the cause of our
coming and had consulted with us and amongst themselves, and in as solemn a
maner as Indians used to do in such cases they did with an unanimous consent
approve their desire of the English friendship, their willingness the English
should come to dwell amongst them and professed that they did give and surren-
der up all their land to the English Sachems at Coneckticott and hereupon pre-
sented us with two parcells of wampem the lesser they would give us for our
mesage, the greater they would send as a present to the Sachims at Coneckticott,
it being not long after the English conquest and the fame of the English being
then upon them.

"It being moved among them which of them would go up with us to signifie
this agreement and to present their wampem to the Sachem at Coneckticott, at
last Waunetan and Wouwequock Paranoket, offered themselves, and were much
applauded by the rest for it. Accordingly those two Indians went up with us to
Harford. Not long after there was a comitee in Mr. Hooker's barne, the meeting
house then not buylded. where they two did apeare and presented iheir wampum,
(but ould Mr. Pinchin one of ye magistrates there then) taking him to be the inter-
preter, then I remember I went out and attended the business no farther, so that
what was further done or what writings there were about the buysness I cannot
now say, but I supose if search be made something of the business may be found
in the records of the Court, and I supose if Mr. Goodwin be inquired of he can

*Mr. Edward Hopkins and Mr. William Goodwin were among the principal
planters at Hartford.

12 History of Stratford.

ford, Conn., in which he states that the land was given to the
Connecticut Colony in 1638, and gives the reasons why the
Indians did it, namely, for the security thereby obtained.
These are corroborated by the fact that Towtanemow, Saga-
more at Paugassett, gave to Lieut. Thomas Wheeler of Fair-
field, about forty acres of land, what is now the southern part
of Birmingham village, in Derby, if he would come and
reside upon it, which he did some five or six years; then sold
the land and improvements for two hundred pounds money.

This paper of Mr. Higginson informs that a convention
was held with the Indians from New Haven to the Hudson
river, at Norwalk in the last week in March (as we now reckon
time), 1638, he himself being interpreter, when the Indians
gave this territory to Connecticut, reserving only room to
plant, and the treaty was ratified with due solemnity at Nor-
walk and at Hartford, the council being held in Mr. Hooker's
barn at Hartford because the meeting-house was not then
completed.

The date of this Norwalk Indian council shows it to have
been held about fifteen days before the New Haven company
landed at Quinnipiac.

The next testimony is that of Thomas Stanton," who was

say the same for substance as I doe and William Cornwell at Sebrook who was
there."

Mr. Nicholas Knell [one of the first settlers at Stratford] testifies to ye same
with Mr. Higgison as respecting ye Indians giving ye land to ye English, and
recommended payment of money to ye Indians as gratuity for ye gifts.

Taken this 3d Aprill Nicholas Knell

•Guilford May 5, 1659 John Higgison."

" Testitnony of Thomas Stanton.

"Loving friends I received your's dated may the 4th 1659, by John Minor
wherein I understand of the insolent and unreasonable behavior and demands of
the natives in your parts as chalenging all or the greatest part of your land so
long since by you possest. Their chalenge is that if the English can prove the
lands they possess were ever sould them or given them or conquered by them.

I much wonder at these times ; this lesson they have leayrned but of late
years certainly. They well know the English did possess all these parts as Con-
quered lands for from Newhaven to Sashquaket we did pursue the Pequets, killed
divers at Newhaven and at Cupheag, only one house, or the k.-irkise of one, we
iound at Milford without inhabitants. At the cuting [off] of the Pequets all

Nczv Indian Papers. 15

tor many years the Indian interpreter at Hartford, which
informs us that Connecticut Colony conquered the Pequots
and Pequannocks at the same time — 1637 — took hostages ol
the Pequannock Indians and sold some of their women into
servitude into Massachusetts. He also says the Pequots had
conquered the tribes along the Sound west of Quinnipiac, and
made them tributary before the English came, and states that
the Pequannocks engaged with the Pequots, as their allies, in
the fight at Cupheag, and also at the swamp on the western
boundary of Fairfield, The fight said to be at Cupheag was
probably at Pequannock river where afterwards a gun was
found as shown by the following record.

" General Court, April, 1639. Thomas Bull informed the

their friends and confederates fled also being under the same condemnation with
them. Tis true some at Paquannocke did formerly stand out but the Pequets did
kill severell of them [i. e. in previous wars,] and conquered the country, [and] so
brought all the Indians at [on] Long Island and the mayne [land] their tributaries
from Pequet to Accomket beyond Hudson River. The English conquering the
Pequets conquered them also and took Captains from Sashquaket [and] Poquan-
ocke, for they several of them lived with the Pequets in time of their prosperitie
and fought against the English also at Sashquaket, Poquanocke Indians fought
against us, likewise some of those women are at and the Bay

[Massachusetts] as captives to this day. I have informed some of the most
Rational Pequets of this and they say that if the English do grant that the western
Indians may sell their land, they [the Pequots] may do the like, for they say their
land [the Pequannocks] is conquered as well as ours. Severall of themselves
debate the poynt with them and prove it to the English before their faces. Also
since the wars I can testify that the Indians at Paquanock did intreat Mr. Haynes
and Mr. Hopkins [then Magistrates] that some (?) of the English would dwell by
them that so they might not be in fear of their enemies, the uplanders, and that
the English should have all their land onl)' providing them some place for plant-
ing ; which I think is but a reasonable request, and I hope you will atend rules
of mercie in that case ; not that they shall be their own carvers what they will and
where for exhorbitant humor will cary them to disposes you of your houses.
Experience proves it; give an Indian an inch and he will take an ell. I will
Ingage myself to prove the land as before sayd conquered, and if I mistake not
very much the English by gift firstlie from themselves desiring as above sayd the
English to come and sit down upon it. I could wish this matter had been in
question in Mr. Haynes days and Mr. Hopkins, but the commanders of the Bay
[Massachusetts] soldiers, and commanders of Coneckticott, the antient Pequets,
will prove it Conquered land, and I never heard of other ground by which the
English did posses it but by Conquest and gift . . . Not else at present to trouble
you I comit you to God and rest your's, to love and serve as God shall enable.

Thomas Stanton. Stratford Records."

14 History of Stratford.

Court that a musket with two letters, J. W., was taken up at
Pequannocke in pursuit of the PequaCts, which was conceived
to be John Woods who was killed at the River's mouth. It
was ordered for the present [that] the musket should be
delivered to John Woods friends until other appear,'"^

It has been generally maintained that at the time the
English came here these Indians were tributary to the
Mohawks, which has been an error according to this paper.

Mr. Stanton also says "only one house or the karkise ot
one we found at Milford without inhabitants." This was the
last week in March, 1637, two weeks before the New Haven
and the Milford companies arrived on what is now Connecti-
cut territory. The question arises, who built this frame of a
house at Milford in, or before 1638, before any of the Milford
people came there?

Another paper was given by Lieut. Thomas Wheeler.'^
one of the first settlers at Fairfield, with his father as he him-
self informs, and as the records show, from which place he

" Col. Rec. i. 29.

'^ Lieutenant Tliomas Wheeler s Testimony.

"That in the time of his being an inhabitant of the town of Fayrefeyld and
having several times in discourse ocation to speake with some of the cheife of
that companj' which are now caled Uncaway Indians as Matawmuck, Nimrod
and Anthony the Sagamore's brother of Uncoway, men well known to themselves,
did relate to him concerning the land now in controversie as followeth :

" That th^y could la}' no clayme or chalenge to any of the land on the east side
[of] Hawkins' Brooke only they had liberty to hunt and fish.

"The ground of this discourse partly came from this the Lieutenant having a
farm on the east side of this Hawkins Brooke and fearing least the Indians should
lay clayme to it as well as to the land on the west side of the aforesayd named
Broke did inquire of aforesayd named Indians concerning it. This the Lieutenant
will take his oath to, it being legaly demanded.

"This Deponent further sayth, that Paquanock Sachem, the chief of the Paqua-
nock Indians had his place of residence on the west side of the River com-
onl}' called Unkcaway River and that it was the proper wright of their pre-
disesours from generation to generation. This was afirmed to this deponent
by Ouerlheag the cheefe Sagamore of the Indians at the English first coming here.
To this the deponent Lieutenant Wheeler offers to take his oath legall)' caled
thereto.

Thomas Wheeler. Stratford Rec."

No date, but it was probably given in 1659, it following directly Mr. Higgin-
son's letter.

New Indian Papers. 15

removed about 1657 to Derby, where the Indians gave him
land, as heretofore stated. Mr. VVheeler says, the Pequan-
nock sachem, whose name was Queriheag, being chief saga-
more, when the English first came, had his residence on the
west side of Uncaway river, and that it was the home and
inheritance of his predecessors from generation to generation,
giving us some idea of the importance and antiquity of this
tribe. Hence it appears that the Pequannock Indians pos-
sessed the territory from what is now the Pequannock river
to Sasqua swamp,'*

These Indians were numerous as appears from the man}'
names attached to deeds, and as we are informed by Squire
Isaac Sherman, that twenty years later, when some of them
had removed farther north, there were one hundred wigwams
occupied by them at Golden Hill. This on a medium esti-
mate would give from five to eight hundred persons when
the English first came here, and they were all Pequannock
Indians, as shown by the names attached to Fairfield Indian
deeds.

Another testimony is that of John Minor," one of the

'^ See Fairfield Indian Deed dated Mar. 20, 1656, hereafter.
''' " The Testimony of John Minor taken upon oath.

" Being desired to speake to wiiat I remember in order to what was spoken
and acted by the Indians or English about Captain Beebee's action commenced
against the town of Stratford at Fayrfeyld about Lands. The substance of what
I can sa}' is briefly thus without any correction or bias of affection contrary to
truth and equity.

" Being desired by the Court then at Fayrfeyld with James Beers to treat with
the Indians of Pequanocke who in regard of the present contagion* were not
admited into the meeting house when the Court sate about the land then in
debate. At our first coming to them the Indians there present did all agree in
one that they had never given any land particularly to Captain Beebee but that
they gave it to Mr. Hopkins and Mr. Haynes and the other comtee of Conecticoate
Generally. Having received this answer we went a little remote from the
Indians.

"The better to certifie each other how we understood them, several words
passed between us but at last I related to the aforesayd Beers what I understood
as above sayd. James Beers contradicted me saying he understood it otherways,
whereupon we went to the Indians a second time before we went into the Court
and they confirmed the same and sayed Captain Beebee had no particular interest

*The contagion was a severe sickness in the winter or spring of 1663.

1 6 History of Stratford.

early settlers and prominent men of Stratford, for many-
years an interpreter between the English and Indians and he
was also town clerk of Stratford. His statement was taken
for the particular purpose of disproving the claims of one
Captain Be'ebe, in 1662, but it also shows that the Indians
declared, at that time, that the land was given to Mr.
Hopkins and Mr. Haynes twenty-four years previous, as
stated by Rev. John Higginson. In 4;his paper, also, Mr.
Minor states incidentally, that there was then a " contagion "^
among the Indians, in consequence of which they were not
permitted to go into the church at Fairfield, where the Court
held its proceedings, and he also reveals the efforts made by
unprincipled men to turn the Indians from truth and right,
for selfish purposes.

The decision of the Court was rendered in 1659, and
Golden Hill reservation was then laid out.

Golden Hill Reservatiojt.^^

" General Court, May, 1659. This Court having consid-
ered the business respecting the Indians at Paquanack, and
the difference twixt Stratford and Fairfield about the said

in any land from them but they gave it as above sayd. Several questions I pro-
pounded to the Indians at this time so that now James Beers sayd I understood
them well enough and as we were going from the Indians, as before Captain
Beebee being a little ways from us James Beers caled to him, Captayne said he
the land is gone, the Indians now uterly disown any perticular gift to you. Then
gone it is says he.

"We now both agreeing that we understood the Indians aright went into the
Court house to return our answer to the Court. Whilst we were abroad before
we went into Court Captayne Beebee went to the Indians and the Captayne's
Sonn. What they sayd to the Indians I know not but presently before we had
delivered to the Court what the Indians had s^yd there was a caling out that the
Indians had something more to say. Upon which the Court desired us to go
forth agayne and be fuly resolved what their minds were. At which then coming
to them we found them of another turn, as may apear by our testimony upon
oath.

This shall legally if called thereto to take my oath of 8th, 3d, 1663.

John Minor.
This action was tried about Michelmas, Anno, 1662.
Taken upon oath this nth, 3d, 1663.

Samuel Sherman. Stratford Records."
'* Col. Rec, i. 335.

Golden Hill Reservation. 17

Indians; do see cause to order that according unto the desire
of the Indians they may quickly possess and enjoy from
henceforth and for the future, that parcel of land called Gold
Hill; and there shall be forthwith so much land laid out
within the liberties of Fairfield as the Committee appointed
by the Court shall judge fit, and in as convenient a place as
may best answer the desire and benefit of the Indians fore-
mentioned, for the future. And the said committee is to see
so much land laid out within the bounds of Fairfield, for the
use and accommodation of Stratford as that Golden Hill fore-
mentioned is, for quantity and quality, and as may be most
convenient for the neighbors of Stratford. And in case Strat-
ford men are unwilling to accept of land, then the committee
shall appoint how much and in what kind the inhabitants of
Fairfield shall pay unto Stratford, in way of satisfaction. And
it is ordered that this parcel of land called Gold Hill, sur-
rendered by Stratford unto Paquanack Indians, according to
the premises, shall be full satisfaction from them unto the
Indians forenamed, and that neither they nor their successors
shall make any further claims or demands of land from Strat-
ford, but shall henceforth be accounted as Fairfield Indians,
or belonging to Fairfield, to be provided for by them for
future as is forementioned in the order. And it is ordered
that in case these Indians shall wholly at any time relinquish
and desert Gold Hill, that then it shall remain to Stratford
plantation, they repaying to Fairfield the one half of that
which they received in consideration of the said land.

" The committee appointed by the Court to see this order
put into execution are, of Norwalk, Mr. Camfield, Mr. Fitch,
Richard Olmstead, Nathaniel Elye, who are to bound out the
lands at Gold Hill, about 80 acres, beginning at the foot of
the hill where the wigwams stood, and to run upwards on the
hill and within Fairfield bounds, as is above mentioned. And
the said committee is to make return to the Court in October,
what they do in reference to this order."

TJie Report of the Coviviittee.

" Loving neighbors of Stratford we whose names are
underwritten have according to the order we had from Gen-

1 8 History of Stratford.

eral Court, without any respect to persons considered of the
value that Fairfield men shall pay to Stratford for the 80 acres
of land that the Indians do possess at Paquanocke with a due
consideration of the land and the place where it lies, wherein
we are agreed and do appoint that the Fairfield men shall pay
to the Stratford men for the 80 acres of land that the Indians
do possess at Paquanocke, twenty pound ; this to be paid in
beefe, porke, wheat and pease. Of beefe 2 barrels, [and] of
porke, good and merchantable, which we value at twelve
pound, and 8 pounds to be payd in wheat and pease ; — wheat
at 4 shillings 6 pense the bushill, pease 3 shillings 6 pense the
bushell. good and merchantable, and this to be payed of Fair-
field to Stratford men betwixt this and the first day of March
next ensuing. This being our agreement we have set to our
hands

Narwoke May 2, 1660.

Matthew Camfeyld
Thomas Fitch."

When this settlement was effected in obedience to the
directions of the Court, an arrangement was made directly
with the Indians.

Agreement betiveen the Indians of Peqnannock and the inhabit-
ants of Stratford.

" Whereas there hath been a difference between the
Indians of Pequanack and the inhabitants of Stratford, for the
issuing of which it is agreed the Indians aforesayd acknowl-
edging their former irregular carriage and misdemeanor and
promising reformation in the particulars hereafter mentioned,
it is then agreed that the aforesaid Indians shall have liberty
to plant and improve the land between the fence that the
Indians made and the bounds which the committee laid for
the aforesaid Indians, till they shall forfeit the same in the
apprehension of the inhabitants of Stratford by breaking
their engagement in the particulars following:

" The Indians do hereby ingage not to kill or any wa}'
molest our cattle and swine.

Indian Obligations. 19

" They ingadge to medle with none of our corn or pease
to steale from us.

" They do ingadge so to mayntayne their fence which
joynes to the fence of the Inhabitants of Stratford that the
corn may be secured, and if any damage comes through any
defect in their fence they are to make satisfaction.

"They are further, to keep up their fence winter and
summer to prevent damaging either them or us.

" They do further engadge to suffer none of the in-
habitants of Fayrefeyld and those of the farmers to get in
or drive any cattle through the aforesaid ground which the
Indians improve, that is to say the whole bounds layed out
by the committee upon and about Golden Hill.

" The Indians aforesaid are well satisfied with what the
committee had done, every particular, and concerning the two
highways likewise.

"These Indians have subscribed in the name of all the
rest, this 24th Aprill 1660.

Musquattat's mark Nimrod's mark

Nesuposu's mark Nomledge's mark

Pechekin's mark."

Thus rested the question of the ownership of the Soil of
the Stratford township at the end of twenty years of occu-
pancy by the English. It had not been purchased by the
whites, not a rod square of it so far as has been ascertained
unless it had been one piece bought by Moses Wheeler— deed
dated April 12, 1659 — as he alleged in 1684, but which was
never recorded on Stratford records, although he said he
made the purchase at the request of the principal men of the
town ; and therefore all the statements by historians that
Stratford territory was purchased in 1639, by Mr. Thomas
Fairchild or any others were made for want of information,
which might easily have been obtained from the Stratford
first book of Town Records.

CHAPTER II.

A INDIAN DEEDS AND RESERVATIONS.

CARCELY had the proceedings instituted
lij, before the General Court come to a close
declaring that Stratford, in 1659, already
owned the land it claimed, before the In-
'WuZ.'t!--'V/'^ dians began to clamor for pay for their long

possessed inheritance, and the people of the
town began to yield in hope of obtaining a
peaceful end, and to buy the land at the
most favorable terms possible.

The first deed of purchase which has
come to light was recorded in the first book
of land records for the Colony at Hartford
and was received by Moses Wheeler and
dated April 12, 1659, and seems to have been
executed while the question of title was before the Court at
Hartford. It was a deed of "a parcel of ground lying along
the side of Potatuck river, the east end of it being on a
small river, which they say is Nayump, the west end bound-
ing to a great rock [from which the name — nai-ompsk ' point
of rock ' was derived] which reacheth the full length of
all that plain piece of ground, and also to have two miles
and a half of ground on the upland and all the meadow
within that bounds.'" " Moses Wheeler alleged that the pur-
chase was made at the solicitation of the principal inhabitants
of Stratford, to prevent it from falling into other hands and
that it cost him upwards of forty pounds."* After the Court
in 1659 decided that the territory belonged to Stratford with-

' Col. Land Rec, i. 213, 214.

" Mr. C. H. Hoadly in Col. Rec, iii. 164.

Indian Deeds of Stratford. 21

out paying- for it, the town allowed Moses Wheeler to keep
his land twenty-five years and then began to lay it into divis-
ion lots among its own members without regard to Moses
Wheeler, although he was one of their own citizens. But
they were brought to time by the General Court in October,
1684, by a profitable suggestion, thus: " This Court do rec-
ommend it to the town of Stratford to come to an agreement
with Moses Wheeler, sen. about the purchase he made of the
Indians of a tract of land within their bounds," and some of
the townsmen were required to appear at the next court and
report the proposition of settlement to be ratified by the
Court, which they did by giving Mr. Wheeler half of the
land. Charity suggests that possibly these brethren of Moses
Wheeler had forgotten, or were taking a little nap on, the
subject of the golden rule as the reason why they left him
with the expense of the land for twenty-five years, without
fulfilling their agreement.

On June 5, 1660, a little over one year after the Court
rendered its decision in favor of Stratford, a deed from the
Indians for Stratford land was received by Bray Rossiter of
Guilford,' and this act by one outside of the town, set the ball

^"June 5, 1660. An agreement betwixt Wampeagj', Ansutu, Wampeug,
Aquiump and Onepenny, Indians of ye one party and Bray Rosseter of Guilford
ye other party as followeth : AH tVie afores'd Indians do passover, assign and sell
(for a debt due) unto ye sd. Bray Rosseter one hundred acres of land on ye west
side of ye river yt passeth up by Stratford ferry, (a little below ye land of Milford
men at Paugesutt) the said hundred acres to begin at ye River and to take all
ye breadth beiwixt two small brooks and soe backward until ye said sume be
made upp, with all ye privileges ot ye River for fishing lying before ye said land,
and ye sd Indians doe further promise and ingage to sell what other lands ye sd
Bray Rosseter shall desire to buy behind ye same father in ye woods uppon like
indifferent terms, in witness our hands.

A marke of Wampeagy.

A marke of Aquiump.

The marke of Wompeug.

The marke of Nansuty.

The marke of Onepenny.
Wampeagy, Nansutu and Onepenny desired to set down ye names of Wum-
peug and Aquiump, Sagemes, atlirming yt they consented unto ye same in pres-
ence of, etc.

Wampeagy approved the above before Andrew Leete, Assistant at Guilford
Feb. 28, 1684."

22 History of Stratford.

moving, or rather set the Indians crazy to sell the land they
had just been told they did not own. This piece of land
seems to have been on the west side of the Housatonic about
one mile above the two mile Island in that river, but whether
Mr. Rossiter held it or not after 1684 has not been ascer-
tained.

Another deed' was given by the Indians of land called by
the English at the time Mohegan Hills, bounded on the west
with the " near sprayne " (or stream, or branch) of the Farmill
river, the date being 1661, but the naine of the month being
obliterated. The peculiar item in this deed is the informa-
tion that there was then " a hop garden hard by ye River
though on ye other side." In 1654 Edward Wooster was the
first settler in Derby for the special purpose of raising hops

* This writing made ye 1661.

" For and upon good consideration moving me thereunto I make over alienate
and freely give to my loving friend Joseph Judson of Stratford in ye jurisdiction
of Connecticot, to him, his heirs and assigns (to have and to hold without molesta-
tion or trouble from any Indian or Indians whatsoever laying clayme or challenge)
forever a parcell of land bounded on the northwest by ye lower part of Moose hill,
on ye west with ye nere sprayne of 3-e far Mill River, on j'e south at ye parting of
ye spraynes of ye far Mill River called by ye English )'e Trapfalls, and on ye east
by ye northwest spraine of ye far Mill River, soe running to ye pine swamp at ye
head of ye River. This parcell of land called by ye English ye Mohegan Hills
and by ye Indians Ackquunokquahou I Amantaneag doe give as aforesd with all
ye privileges and appertenances, the meadow or what else belongs thereto as wit-
ness my hand and seale ye day and date above written.

There is also a hop garden hard by ye River, though on ye other side, which
I doe also freely give to aforesaid Joseph Judson and his forever.

The mark of Amantaneag.
The mark of Akenotch,

Sagamore of Pagasett.
The mark of Ansantavvay.
Acquiumps his mark.

Acquiumps doth hereby confirm this act of Amantaneag's witness his hand
the 4th of loth, 1663.

Per me John Minor.

Poidge, his mark.

Patequeno, his mark.

Chepon, his mark."

Witnesses :

The mark of Suchsquoke.
The mark of Wunnubber.

Indian Deeds of Stratford. 23

on the bottom land now a little way below Ansonia, and here
in what is now Huntington was another hop garden only
seven years later, and may have been there several years
earlier than 1661,

There are also in this deed as well as others that follow
several local names of interest.

A second deed' was given the same year, probabl}- a

' " This present writing witnesseth yt I Wampegan who am ye lawful heir to all
ye Indian Rights and privileges yt did aforetime belong to ye Sachems and my
grandfather and since to other Sachems my uncles who were ye legall proprietors
of a great tract of land lying west from ye farr mill River at Woronoke bounded
on ye east with a pine swamp at ye east spraine of ye far mill River bounded on
ye west wi»h ye west spraine of Paquannuck River, on ye South with ye lower
part of Moose hill and bounded on ye north with ye Assuntokereag a place soe
named about a mile and a half north from ye upper part of Moose hill,
and norwest with a place called Manantock running as far as Pootatuck
path ; I say I Wampegan doe not only hereby confirm what hath been form-
erly granted and freely bequeathed to Joseph Judson of Stratford in ye Jurisdic-
tion of Connecticut by Weenepes my uncle, I being a witness to what he did and
it being for substance ye same which I do at present, but also I doe hereby give
and freely bequeath to ye aforesaid Joseph J udson ye aforementioned tract of land,
to him his heires and assignes forever to have and to hould without molestation
or trouble from any person or persons Indian or Indians whatsoever yt shall lay
clayme or challenge to any part of ye sd land by virtue of any title or interest
whatsoever therein ; I say I give and freely bequeath the aforesaid land with all
ye appurtenances and privileges belonging, as hunting, &c., with all dues
to said land as if I were personally to enjoy the customs thereto belonging
myself. The aforesaid Joseph Judson promising yt upon this consideration
Wompegan his first cousins named Poidge, Heenummojeck, Momowetah shall
have free liberty to hunt for deare, &c., uppon ye aforesd tract of land. For ye
assurance hereof yt this is my act and deed is written freely and subscribed, this
ninth of September one thousand six hundred and sixty-one, gih Sept., 1661.

Wampegan, his mark.
The mark of Akenotch the

Sagamore of Pagusett.
The mark of Ansantaway.

"This writing made ye I4lh May, 1662, witnesseth yt I Acquiumph upon good
consideration doe confirm ye abovesd gift by Wompegan or any before, to Joseph
Judson of Stratford. I Acquiumph Sachem of Pootatuck doe confirm ye same in
every particular by subscribing ye day and date above written.

The mark of Quiump, Sachem of

Pootatuck being related to Wampegan.
Poidge, his mark.

Chepenett, his mark."

24 History of Stratford.

month or two later, of land lying west from the Far-mill
river, extending west to the west branch of the Pequannock
river. "There was a Pootatuck path " bounding the land on
the northwest. Pootatuck was at that time the name of the
Indian settlement occupying land now covered by the south-
ern part ot the village of Shelton in Huntington, the place
of the same name in Newtown not being then established.
This deed was given by another party than the latter previ-
ous one, and was confirmatory of the other, 3'et the same
Sachem signed both. This strikingly illustrates the separate
interests in the lands by the Indians and also the relation
between the Pequannocks or Stratford Indians and the Pau-
gasetts, the Paugasett chief signed both deeds.

A third deed" was given in the year 1661, which was by
Towtanimow and his mother the wife of Ansantaway, the
old chief of Milford, who also signed the deed. Towtanimow
was the chief Sachem at Paugassett at that time, but died
that same winter, for in the spring — April, 1662 — Okenuck

*" This indenture made the 4th da)' of December, in the year of our Lord
Christ one thousand six hundred and sixtie one between Towtanamy and his
mother the wife of Ansantaway being the Chief Sagamore of Pagusit on the one
parte and Samuel Sherman and John Hurd and Caleb Nichols, Townsmen in the
name of the inhabitants of the town of Stratford in the colony of connecticoute
on the other part: Whereas the said Towtanimy is now lawfully seized to him
and his heayers and asigns forever of and in all that plat of land lying and being
between the nerer Milne River and the father Milne River comonly so caled by
the English and being the bounds south and northeast upon Stratford River and
west with the bare swamp caled by the Indians Makoron, northwest on black
brook's mouth : now this indenture witnesseth that the sayd tantanimy and in the
name of all the rest ot the Indians of pawgasit for and in consideration of twelve
pound [worth] of trading cloath and one blankit to him in hand payd before the
writing hereof by the say'd Samuel Sherman, John Hurd and Caleb Nichcols
and for other considerations him the sayd towtanamy thereunto moving hath
given, granted, bargained, sould enfeoffed and confirmed by these presents do
give .... to Samuel Sherman, John Hurd and Caleb Nichcols and the inhabi-
tants of Stratford aforesayd for ever all and every part of the sayd parcell of land
above written being between the Mill Rivers ; and all the sayd Towtanamy's right
and interest thereunto.

Towtanomow, Sagamore, his mark.

Ansantaway, his mark.

Uncktine, his mark.

Chipes, his mark."

Dec. 4, 1661.

Indian Deeds of Stratford. 25

•signs a deed in wliich he states that he is the only Sachem of
Paugassett.

In April, 1662, a deed' was given by Okenongc (more com-
monly called Okenuck, on Derby deeds) of land at the western
boundary of Paugassett lands, which is a matter of interest
although not quite explainable. West and northwest of this
land is met the territory controlled and deeded by Pocono,
then the Sachem at VVeantinock (New Milford), for he gave
a deed in 1671 to Henry Tomlinson for more than twenty
thousand acres apparentl}- extending to or into Newtown.
This deed to' Henry Tomlinson was secured upon a permit
by the General Court for establishing a plantation, and was
recorded in Stratford, where Mr. Tomlinson resided, claim-
ing seven miles in length, three miles wide from the river on
each side, or six miles in breadth, which was to be three
miles up, and three down the river from Goody ear's* Island in
the Housatonic just below Falls Mountain in New Milford.
This locality, if not the most, is one of the most sublime, on
the Housatonic river, but the lower half of the territory
covered by the deed was of small value in consequence of the
steep rocky hills along the river.

The accompanying cut is a good representation of Falls

'' " Know all men by these presents yt I Okenotige ye only Sachem of Pagasitt
doe freely give and bequeath unto my loving friends Ensign Joseph Judson and
Joseph Hawley and John Minor of Stratford in ye Colony of Connecticott a
parcell of Land bee it more or less lying on ye west of ye land w"='' ye aforesd
Town of Stratford hath purchased of mee and it being all yt lyes on ye west of
w' is already purchased yt belongs to me and Pagassett Indians. That I give the
above sd tract of land to ye aforenamed persons to have and to hold w^'out
molestation or trouble by any Indian or Indians vv'soever : I say to them and
theire Heires forever as witness my hand this 22d April 1662.

Witnessed by us Okenonge his marke."

Nansantaway's marke

Chipps his marke "

* Deed to Henry Tomlinson for 26,880 acres signed by the following Indians:

Pocono, his mark. Mataret, the Sachem's Toto, his mark.

Ocomunhed, his mark. eldest son. Mohemat, his mark.

Wesonco, his mark. Tomo, his mark, the sec- Chetemhehu, his mark.

Pomuntock, his mark. ond Son of Mataret. Othoron, his mark.

Ringo, his mark. Quocanoco, his mark. Papisconas, his mark.

Coshushamock, his mark. Weekpenos, his mark.

;

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■

Indian Deeds of Stratford. 2J

Mountain at the gorge looking up stream from the noi"thcrn
extremity of Goodyear's Island. The river just below the
gorge has been called the Cove and Fishing Place since the
first settlement of New Milford, because here the shad and
herring were stopped in their progress up the river, and
hence afforded a great supply of fish for the whole region of
country — shad having been sold there many times at one
penny each ; and the most advantageous part of the west
shore having been rented in the early settlement of the town,
for 999 years, for one shad of every thirteen that should be
caught there. The gorge is over half a mile long, at the
upper end of which are the Great Falls where now is located
the large Wood-finishing Mill built by Bridgeport men, and
where in olden times were caught by Indians and whites
immense numbers of lamprey-eels. These falls are not very
high but are called the great falls in comparison with smaller
ones two miles further up the river. The Island was named
Goodyear's Island from the fact that Mr. Stephen Goodyear
of New Haven about the year 1642 built a trading house
upon it or near it, for purposes of commerce with the Indians.

The point of rocks on the right hand in the picture is
called Lover's Leap from a legend said to have been historic
of an ancient chief's daughter, but the legend being about the
same in all its parts as is told of several other localities in
Connecticut, receives but little credence.

The Indian name of the Great Falls was Metichawan,
denoting an " obstruction " or " turning back,"' and hence
since the fish stopped at the cove except the eels, the name
may have been applied more immediately to the cove by the
Indians.

The falls are celebrated as having been the locality —
adjacent on the west bank — where was built the wonderfully
ornamented bark tent of the renowned chief Warhaumaug^
the last but one of all the chiefs of the Indians of Western
Connecticut, or of the original Pootatuck tribe.'"

The old chief Warhaumaug's monument stands on the

* See Trumbull's Indian Names.

^^ See "Indians of the Housatonic Valley."

History of Stratford.

hill a little to the east of Lover's Leap. Sometime within
later years the white people have piled the stones, which lay
scattered about for one hundred years at the old chief's grave,
into a monumental pile, as represented in the accompanying
cut. From it there is a beautiful outlook over the surround-
ing country, for which reason the old chief requested to be
buried there.

avakhaumaul; s monument.

The gathering of the Indian tribes from the south and
east with the old chief Warhaumaug at the falls was the last
of any considerable number until they concentrated at Scata-
cook, where now onl}' a few families are left.

Indian Deeds of Stratford. 2^

VVarhaumaug seems to have been the chief "Tom King"
of Turkey Hills in Milford and of Coram in Stratford, in
1714, who coming to this locality took his name, which
means "good fishing place," from the place. He died about
1735, being attended in his last sickness by the Rev. Daniel
Boardman of New Milford.

Henry Tomlinson's deed was. reaffirmed" with an addi-
tional grant in 1702 extending it northward " five miles and a
half in length from the Still River, to run southwest to a
small brook called Susumene Brook and so in breadth three
miles on both sides the great river." This was given to
Richard Blackleach and Daniel Shelton, who had probably
inherited or purchased it from Henry Tomlinson or his heirs.
This was the land that John Read was heir to from his father
who resided in Stratford as one of its first settlers. Mr.
Read, who afterwards settled at Reading, Conn., and from
whose family that town took its name, and who became very
celebrated in the profession of law in Boston, sued the New
Milford company for trespass when they settled there ; gained
his suit before the Hartford Court fifteen times but lost it on
the sixteenth, and then surrendered his claim.'*

In the year 1671, the inhabitants of Stratford having
become tired of purchasing the soil by piecemeal which they
already owned, entered into an agreement to purchase all the
claims of the Indians, within the town, except the reserva-
tions sanctioned by the Court, and in order to make a full
end of the matter brought it before the General Court, by
their deputies, and the Court ordered a full settlement,

'^ Henry Tomlinson's deed confirmed with addition to Richard Blackleach
and Daniel Shelton, August 9, 1702, and signed b}' the following :

Poconos, his mark.

Indian witnesses. Werneitt, his mark.

Papepetito, his mark, Cush, his mark.

Sachem of Oantenocke. Paquahim, his mark.

Siccus, his mark. Nunhotuho, his mark, the

Metach, his mark. Indian interpreter.
Mattecus, his mark,
Poconos' son.

'- See History of New Milford, Conn.

30 History of Stratford.

appointing the deputies to attend the execution of the matter
and make report. The agreement with the Indians, and the
deed are both recorded. In this deed'^ the}' acknowledge all
previous agreements and confirm all sales. They restate the
boundaries as follows:

"The line running from ye southward to ye northward
twelve miles as it is now settled by ye court and from that
north line, ye north end of it to runn away easterly to a pine
swamp and so to a little River commonly called )^e halfway
River and soe to ye g* River called Stratford River — the
north bounds being ye half-way River, ye east bounds Strat-
ford River and ye South bounds ye Sound on ye Sea, ye west
bounds Fayrefeyld as aforesd."

It was agreed that the Town of Stratford shall pa}^ or
cause to be paid for and in consideration of the premises of
Musquatt or his assigns, ten coats and five pounds of powder
and twenty pound of lead. By this purchase was secured, or
rather the Indians released from any claims, a large propor-
tion of what is now the northern half of the township of
Huntington in which there were some sandy hills of light
color, and hence the name " White Hills Purchase," by
which the territory was designated on the town records, and
the name is still retained in the White Hills school districts.

This purchase, which cost the town of Stratford accord-
ing to the tax list made specially for this purpose, over £\o,
quieted the Indians just thirteen years, when another squad
of claimants had grown up, or at least made their appearance,
and doubtless for a consideration — as whenever did they with-
out— confirmed the previous sale, thus: " We whose names
are hereunto subscribed have had a full understanding of the
contents of the above written bill of sales, — we do fully con-
cur with those that formerly signed the same, and do appiove

'^ This deed which secured particular!}- the While Hills was dated May 25,
1671, and signed by the following Indians :

Indian witnesses. Musquatt, his mark.

Sucksquo, his mark. Nesumpaw, his mark.

Susqua James, his mark. Sasapaqun, his mark.

Peonseck, his mark. Shoron, his mark.

Totoquan, his mark. Tackj'mo, his mark.

Indian Deeds of Stratford. 31

thereof and do oblige ourselves and our heirs to stand
thereto, Golden Hill as stated by the Court excepted.""

Thus ended apparently all Indian claims to Stratford
lands, except in the reservations at Golden Hill and Coram.
Of those who signed this last release two deserve a passing
notice. Siacus, who signed a deed in Fairfield, retired to
Gaylordsville in New Milford where he resided some years
after the Gaylord family settled there about 1724, and where
the site of his hut is still pointed out, as having stood in the
midst of an orchard of apple-trees. He was a kindly remem-
bered old Indian.

Chickens was also of the Pequannock tribe, and removed,
probably, first to the Newtown or southern part of New
Milford, thence to Reading, where he claimed and held a res-
ervation, and after some years traded his reservation there
for land at Ten Mile River near Kent, with John Read, and
became one of the Kent tribe. His grandson, Tom Warrups,
figured somewhat amusingly as well as patrioticalh' during
the Revolution at Reading," and after some 3'ears he removed
and settled on the east side of Mount Tom in New Milford,
where he enjoyed much liberty, lived cheerfully, loved strong
water, had a wife who was a complete slave in waiting on
him, but quite content in her home. Nothing is known of his
death and hence probably he removed to Kent about 18 10.

The local name Pootatuck, where the southern part of
the village of Shelton now stands in the town of Huntington,

" Confirmation of the White Hills sale, April 2S, 1684.

Papuree, his mark.

Indian witness. Ponamscut, • his mark.

Nasumpawes, his mark. Acunhe, his mark.

Robin, his mark.

Matach, his mark.

Siacus, his mark.

Chickens, his mark.
Sashwake James, his mark.

Crehero, his mark.

Nasqurro, his mark.

Cheroromogg, his mark.

'^ Hist, of Redding, 65. Indians of Housatonic, Hist. New Milford.

32 History of Stratford.

was within the original limits of the town of Stratford, and
was occupied by Indians, apparently, until 1684, some forty
years after the town began to be settled, although it was not
a reservation. It was probably the most ancient settlement
on that river below Weantinock and retained the original
name of the river, which was Pootatuck, meaning " falls
river" or the river with many falls. From the distribution of
relics as well as the name of the river it is suggested that the
Mohican, or Hudson river Indians, came through the opening
of the mountains a little below the present town of Kent,
Conn,, and finding the magnificent cascade or falls at the
place now called Bull's Bridge, and on ascertaining the falls
at New Milford and at Canaan, they named the river Poota-
tuck, ' falls river,' So far as ascertained, this was the only
name applied by the Indians to this river when the whites
first came here,'* and from it came the general classification
of Pootatuck Indians to all who resided upon it ; except that
they always retained — even to this day — the ancestral origin
of Mohegans (usually pronounced by the Indians, Mohegans.)
The first settlement they made on the river of any considerable
account was at New Milford which was retained as the Council-
fireplace, or the capital, until the locality was sold in 1705. A
small settlement was perhaps first made at Kent called Scata-
cook (Pish-gach-tigok) signifying 'the confluence of two
streams,' for here were found by the first settlers such imple-
ments as were not made in this part of the country, as
described by Dr. Trumbull and as have been ascertained at
more recent dates, but the favoring circumstances at that
locality for a large and permanent settlement were almost noth-
ing compared to New Milford, where were the richest bottom
lands and greatest in extent of any place on the river, besides
the great abundance offish and eels two miles below, at Falls
Mountain. Then, also, it has been handed down from the Rev.
Daniel Boardman the first minister at New Milford, by his

'* On Stratford and Derby records the only Indian name for this river at first
was Pootatuck, with various spellings, and as late as 1723 in Newtown in a pub-
lic vote they say, " the Great or Potatuck River," in a proposition to purchase the
Indian claims of Ouiomph and his tribe then residing there, thus showing that
the Indians still retained their old name for the river.

Indian Deeds of Stratford.

son Sherman Boardman in writing that New Milford was the
chief seat of government for all the tribes or clans on the
Housatonic river. The only locality that retained the origi-
nal name was at Shelton, and the extensiveness of the burials
made there indicates greater antiquity than elsewhere except
at New Milford. There was here also at the old Pootatuck
village, an old fort when the English first came, and a new
one had been built, just before, or was built soon after, at
what is still called Fort Hill on the west side a little further
up the river.

CONFLUENCE OF THE HOUSATONIC WITH THE NAUGATUCK.

The accompanying illustration represents the Naugatuck
river coming from the north, at the right hand, into the
Housatonic. The cove at the north end of the fields opposite
the old Leman Stone store and shipping house, was known
many years as Huntington Landing (belonging to Stratford
150 years); and about half a mile up the river on the west
side was the old Pootatuck settlement and fort ; and a mile
3

34 History of Stratford.

above it on the same side of the river was the new fort on
what is still Fort Hill, while about a mile further up is the
Indian Well. This Huntington and Derby Landing was a
great shipping port for about one hundred years.

It was at this place, being within the bounds of Stratford,
that the Indians in 1663 agreed to abandon their old planting
field for the sake of peace, and probably for the purpose of
being allowed to occupy the locality longer as a settlement
or residence, after the land had been turned over to the Eng-
lish more than twenty years, in the following language :

" Upon consideration of friendly and loving correspond-
ence between us and the town of Stratford, we will no more
plant on the south side of the Great River at Paugusitt to
prevent a ground of future variance between us, in order to
avoid any damage that might be done to corn.'"* The cattle
and swine of the English were pastured in the wilderness,
and if the Indians planted corn without making substantial
fences about it, damage would be the inevitable result ; there-
fore rather than build a fence around land they could not
legally hold, they concluded not to plant at that place. A
large proportion of the Paugasitt tribe were residing then on
Derby Neck, a mile north of the present village of Birming-
ham, where they had a large planting field.

The relics found at Pootatuck have been numerous and
some of them very fine in workmanship. Two pestles dug
up in excavating for a cellar in 1879, ii^ar the river, in the
lower part of Shelton, were the most perfect of any seen in
this part of the country.

The Indian Well is the only remaining monument or
visible reminder of the old Pootatuck tribe. This was located
on the west side of the river about a mile above the dam
across the Housatonic. A stream of water pours through
the opening of the rocks and descends about twenty feet into
a deep pool or well, said to have been measured to the depth

" The agreement between Okenunge and Stratford, May 28, 1663, was signed
by the following names :

Okenunge, his mark. Ansantaway, his mark.

Amantaneage, his mark. • Mansuck, his mark.

Asquetmougu, his mark. Nomponucke, his mark.

Indian Deeds of Newtown. 35.

of one hundred feet without finding the bottom. It is said
that the Indians held some superstition of awe or veneration
for the place, but the appearance would indicate the awe to
have partaken more of the nature of thankfulness for the
coolness and agreeableness of the place and the abundance
of good water. It is a pleasing resort for visitors in the sum-
mer, and many improve its inviting shades and romantic
scenery. Whether the Indians had as much or more pleasure
in the locality than the whites have since may be a question
of doubt, but certain it is that the name is the Indian Well.

Pootatnck in Neivtown.

About 1680 the Indians on the lower part of the Housa-
tonic made a considerable migration with their wigwams up
the Housatonic river, those on the south side to Pootatuck
in Newtown and those on the east side to the mouth of the
Shepaug on the north side. In i68i,the Pequannock Indians
sold their old planting field in Fairfield, and in 1685, 1686 and
1687 they completed the sale of all their claims in that town.
Golden Hill and Coram in Stratford were left, but Coram
they never liked as a place for wigwams and but few dwelt
there, and the whites had already settled to the north of that
place, so that game was scarce, the forests were disappearing,
and they felt compelled to move West, as many of their suc-
cessors have done since.

Newtown and New Milford became the points of rendez-
vous from 1680 until about 1705, when the}' sold again and
moved on west.

Newtown from 1680 until 1705 must have been the home
of several hundred natives. In the latter year they sold the
territory for that township,'^ making some reservation and in

^^The deed for the purchase of Newtown is dated July 25, 1705, and was for a
' ' tract of land bounded south on a Pine Swamp and land of Mr. Sherman and Mr.
Rossiter, Southwest upon Fairfield bounds, Northwest upon the bounds of Dan-
bury, Northeast on land purchased by Milford men at or near Caentonoack, and
Southeast on land of Nannawaug, an Indian, the line running two miles from the
river right against Potatuck, the said tract of land containing in length, eight
miles and in breadth six miles in consideration of four guns, four Broad-
cloth coats, four Blanketts, four Buffalo Coats, four Kettles, ten shirts, ten pair of

History of Stratford.

1723, they by their chief, Quiumph, sold all their claims in
that town "except a corner of intervale lying by ye River
where Cocksures fence'" is." The Newtown deed of 1705,
contains the names of several Indians who signed deeds in
Fairfield and Stratford, showing that they retired from their
old wigwams along the coast to Pootatuck in Newtown. New
Milford and Newtown were purchased at nearly the same
time. At New Milford they sold their last land, which was
their old planting field, in 1705, and with those from Newtown
and Shepaug in Woodbury began to center in considerable
numbers at Kent. There is a sense of sadness connected
with their leaving Weantinock, their old council-fire place,
where their warriors had gathered during many generations
to decide the great questions of peace or war, and where
their wigwams and fort had stood, perhaps hundreds of
years, and where also they had buried a large number of
their kindred ancestors. It was a beautiful locality, with

Stockings, fortie pound of Lead, ten Hatchetts, ten pound of powder and fortie
knives."

Macroremee, his mark. Slams, his mark.

Wachunaman, his mark. Sudragumqua, his mark.

Walwatup, his mark. Wompenoch, his mark.

Martenech, his mark. Wachunanee, his mark.

Awashkeran, his mark. Saununtawan, his mark.

Ammeruetas, his mark. Manapok, his mark.

Mattouchsqua, his mark. Magusquo, his mark.

Gonnehampishe, his mark, Tarrosque, his mark.

Wompeowash, his mark. Meramoe, his mark.

Murapash, his mark. Sosauso, his mark.

Punnauta, his mark. Wamatup, his mark.

Wannome, his mark. Materook, his mark.

Mesaukseo, his mark. Awashkeram, his mark.

Taroosh, his mark. Mattoacksqua, his mark.

Merammoe, his mark. Mauquash, his mark.

Sachamoque, his mark. Massumpo, his mark.

Sassousoon. his mark. Nannawaug, his mark.

•^ Newtown deed, called Second Purchase, dated Aug. 7, 172^.

Indian Witnesses. Quiumph, his mark.

Manchero, his mark.

Nalumkeotunk, his mark.

Machekomp, his mark.

Mansumpus, his mark.

38 History of Stratford.

most charming surroundings. Their wigwams stood on the
high bluff, seen in the accompanying picture, with the
mountain in the rear stretching to the north, and their rich
planting field at the foot of the bluff stretching eastward to
the river and along its shore for a mile or more. On the
edge of the bluff, now covered with a beautiful chestnut and
oak grove, was their burying place, where now after one hun-
dred and eighty years, fifty mounds may be counted ; it
being, probably, the most perfect native memorial place that
can be seen in all New England. The accompanying cut
shows first, beyond the bridge, the old field, then the bluff
where a dwelling stands ; a little to the left of which are the
mounds, in the grove, and beyond these the mountains. In
front of all these, flowing beneath the bridge is the Indians'
grand old Pootatuck river. All these are but memorial of
these native children of America.

Notwithstanding there were only eighty acres of land
reserved for the Indians on Golden Hill, the white settlers
were unwilling to allow them even these acres, but the
•General Court faithfully tried to protect them, as seen in the
following record :

" May, 1678. Whereas this Court have been informed
that some of Stratford have been claiming and laying out
land upon Golden Hill to themselves, which hath been settled
upon the Indians b}^ agreement in this Court about nineteen
years since, the Indians having not relinquished their right in
the said Golden Hill, the Court confirms the same to the
said Indians, according to former grant, without molestation ;
and this Court orders that the said Indians shall not be
molested or interrupted in their right there until they do
wholly relinquish their right publicly, and come and record
the same before this Court. This Court allows the Indians
two coats to be delivered them by Stratford for their
trouble." ■'"

In May, 1680, xA-ckenach, Sachem of Milford and Pau-
gassett Indians asked for more land for the support of his
people ; in reply to which the Court appointed two commit-

20 Col. Rec, iii.

Indian Reservations. 39

tees, one to lay out one hundred acres at Turkey Hill, for
Milford Indians, — which accomplished its work — and the
other to lay out one hundred acres at Corum hill. The latter
say in their report : " We have been at Corum hill and have
laid out one hundred acres of land, be it more or less, for the
use of those Indians that properly belong to Stratford to
provide land for, by the law of this Colony, bounded with
marked trees and Stratford River and Samuel Judson's
ground; sufficient highways and conveniences for fishing on
that side the river to be allowed in that said land when and
where occasion shall require from time to time.
Oct. 3, 6. 1680.

William Fowler.
Jehu Burr."

This Coram land the Indians did not like, reporting it as
very stoney and poor, but they occupied it many years,
although not in large numbers. In 1714, they sold about
twenty acres of it,"' for the sum of nine pounds and other
land. This other land is described as "in Stratford town-
ship near a place called Quorum, bounded on the east partly
on the river and on the north with a brook called Quorum
brook."

In the deed to Harger is the name Tom, whom Harger
in his deed to the Indians says was son of Cockapotane, who
v^^as the last chief at Paugassett, about 1730, and Tom in sign-
ing the deed made the same mark Antsantaway had used a
number of times, namely, the bow and arrow.

Tom was somewhat accustomed to high times when
young, as appears from the sale of a piece of the Coram
reservation in 1724. The following is the record :

" Know all men by these presents, that whereas certain

"^^ The deed to Abraham Harger, dated May 31, 1714, was signed by ten
Indians as follows :

Windham, his mark.

Ackomie, his mark.

Tom, his mark.

Tackamore, his mark.

Pequet, his mark.

Mishallin,

his mark.

Robin,

his mark.

Curan,

his mark.

Rauneton,

his mark.

Chips,

his mark.

40 History of Stratford.

Turkey Hill Indians upon Stratford River did about May-
last and before, steal sundry sheep from Stratford side out of
Quorum plain and being convicted of the same before
Authority — the Indians were these : Montigue, Tom Will,
Ponocurate.^Chashamon, Mojono, Chipunch, Nenoco, Peico-
curet, — their Sachem Tomtonee or Munshanges, engaging to
pay eleven pounds ten shillings in money which the said
Indians promised to pay for the damage in stealing of sheep,
and not having money to pay, the aforesaid Tomtonee, Saga-
more, in the behalf of all the other Indians doth make over
two parcels of land ; the one being about two acres called by
the name of lower Quorum upon the great River, that they
had of Abraham Harger, the other ten acres of land near the
Narrows, bounded with the land of Daniel Shelton, north,
south and easterly by the Indians' land in ye bounds of Strat-
ford for the aforesaid sum of eleven pound ten shillings, and
forty shillings more in money which we do own to have
received already, in all being thirteen pounds ten shillings ;
all the aforesaid land with all the privileges, etc., hath made
over unto Daniel Shelton of Stratford in the Colony of Con-
necticut, to quitclaim unto the said Daniel Shelton and his
heirs forever, or so long as he the said Shelton or his heirs
shall own that they are paid by the improvement of said
land. The said Shelton of his own accord doth say that if
the General Court or the town of Stratford saith he hath
done amiss, he will relinquish the land. The aforesaid Tom-
tonee paying the sum of thirteen pounds ten shillings to

aforesaid Shelton and the said Tomtonee, Sagamore,

does promise for himself and the rest of said Indians that if
ever the land is taken out of the hand of Daniel Shelton or
his heirs, that the said Tomtonee will pay back the aforesaid
thirteen pounds ten shillings to the aforesaid Shelton or his
heirs.""

The special reason why Mr. Shelton so freely offered to-

" Derby, Jan. 7, 1723-4, Tomtonee's deed for stealing sheep.

Mashages, his mark. Tomtonee, his mark.

Tom Will, his mark. Cheponan, his mark.

Punto, his mark.

Indian Reservations. 41

restore the land if called upon was that it was unlawful for
any person or company to purchase land of the Indians with-
out a permit from the Court.

It has been reported that the Indians had a reservation
at Oronoque, or Woronoque, as the early Stratford town
clerks wrote it, but no record of such reservation has been
seen by the author of these pages. They may have resided
there, or occupied a particular locality for many years by
sufferance from the town, as they did at Pootatuck, but there
was no reservation in the town but at Golden Hill, at first,
and then at Coram afterwards, and the wood lot at Rocky
Hill.

Golden Hill Reservation Sold.

The settlement made with the Pequannock Indians in
1659, in the appropriation of eighty acres of land on Golden
Hill, by the General Court through the towns of Stratford
and Fairfield, remained in force nearly one hundred years, or
until October, 1763, when three Indians — Tom Sherman,
Eunice Shoran his wife, and Sarah Shoran, petitioned the
General Court for redress, claiming that they and their
ancestors " had quietly enjoyed said lands till within a few
years last past, Gamaliel French, widow Sarah Booth, Elihu
Burret, Joseph Booth, Mary Burret, the Rev. Robert Ross,
Ezra Kirtland, Aaron Hawley and Samuel Porter, all of said
Stratford, and Daniel Morriss, John Burr, Jr., and Richard
Hall, all of Fairfield, have entirely ejected and put the
memorialists out of the whole of said lands and pulled down
their wigwam without right." Upon this complaint, Jabez
Hamlin, Benjamin Hall and Robert Treat, Esqrs., were
appointed a committee to inquire into the matter and report,
which report was made the next May, but the Court was
wholly dissatisfied with it and appointed Jabez Hamlin,
Elisha Sheldon and Robert Treat, Esqrs., a second committee
" with full power and authority to examine into and discover
said matters of grievance." This committee reported the next
October, 1765, an agreement with the Indians to sell all the
eighty acres except " a certain piece or parcel of land called

42 History of Stratford.

Nimrocl lot, containing about twelve acres, with the spring at
the point of Golden Hill aforesaid, bounded westerly by an
highway, eastwardly by Poquonnuck River, northerly by
Jabez Summer's land, and southerh^ by the Cove and com-
mon land, also about eight acres of wood-land at Rocky Hill,
to be purchased for them by the petitioners, the}' also pa_ving
to them the said Indians, thirty bushels of Indian corn and
three pounds worth of blankets.""" This report and agree-
ment was accepted and ordered by the Court to be executed,
and to be in full for all demands by the Indians.

Besides the thirty bushels of Indian corn and three
pounds worth of blankets, those who had trespassed on the
rights of the Indians were ordered by the Court to pay to
Thomas Hill, the Indian agent, ^^52 11^ 2'', to defray the
expenses of the Indians in the suit.

In the agreement with Fairfield in 1659, this land upon
the Indians leaving it, was to revert to the town of Stratford,
upon their returning half the amount of money that Fairfield
paid for it. If this was carried out, then these trespassers
must have paid this item also to the town of Stratford, if no
more, provided they retained the land. It is probable, how-
ever, that they paid a still further charge to Stratford for the
land.

It will be seen by the above quotation that the wood
land was not an original reservation but a purchase at this
time.

The Last Families.

Tom Sherman, the last owner of the Golden Hill reserva-
tion, married, in the Indian wa\% Eunice Shoran, and had
children: I, Tom; II, Eunice; III, Sarah.

I. Tom 2^, m. Sarah (?) and had IV Ruby.

II. Eunice, m. Mack or Mansfield, formerly of Kent, and
had V, Jim, Garry and Eunice.

III. Sarah, m. Ben Roberts, a negro, and lived at the
Eagles' Nest at Stratford Tide Mill. Some of their descend-

*'' Conn. Col. Records, xli.

■i,4,^^tZ'm

e^'T^'^^i'n

The Last Faviilies. 43

ants still reside in Orange, Conn., but are not claimants on
the Indian funds of Stratford.

V. Jim Mansfield, son of Eunice Shoran, m. his cousin
Ruby, dau. of Tom 2'\ and had Nancy, who had VI, William
Sherman; after which she m. John Sharpe, and had Beecher,
Nancy and Charles, and Sharpe being sent to State's Prison,
she lived with a man Rensler, and had Olive.

VI. William Sherman, son of Nancy and grand-son of
Tom 2'^ and Ruby, was born in 1825 in Poughkeepsie, N. Y.,
and is still living at Nichols Farms in Trumbull, Conn., being
the sole claimant on the Indian money from the sale of Golden
Hill. He m. Nancy Hopkins of New London, and was a
sailor in a whaling ship seventeen years; has been 'round the
world nine times; was first mate of the ship five years and
earned an honorable standing and reputation, which he has
retained to the present time. He educated himself, and
could perform the full services of a first mate on a ves-
sel correctly as well as intelligently. He has long been a
respected farm laborer at Nichols Farms, and long trusted
with considerable responsibility in the management of the
farm and properties of Mr. F. P. Ambler and Sons, while they
were engaged in the business of Saddletree manufacturing at
that place. Fie has been the Sexton of the Cemetery at
Nichols Farms about thirty years and performed the work of
his position with much satisfaction to the community. He
and his wife have acted in the capacity of nurses in severe
sicknesses in the community for many years, and as such won
many expressions of thankfulness and confidence. The tradi-
tion is that he is a descendant of Moll}^ Hatchet of Derby ;
and in the healthy locality where he resides has attained
to the standard weight of about three hundred and sixty
pounds.

His children are: I, William; II, Henry, died aged 17
years; III, George, who m. Mary A, Hamilton; IV, Mary
Olive, who died young; V, Caroline; VI, Huldah ; VII,
Mary Olive; VIII, Charles ; IX, child that died.

CHAPTER III.

INDIAN DEEDS, WARS AND RELICS.

AIRFIELD and Stratford were both held
)_ by the Connecticut Colony as conquered
ff and ceded territory when these settlements
were first commenced, and for ten years
they were treated in several respects as one
plantation. They were taxed as one ; they
were served with magistrates as one, and
jointly they provided for the Pequannock:
Indians after 1659 until 1680; Stratford
furnishing the land for the Golden Hill
reservation in part and Fairfield contribut-
ing something towards the supply of the
land, and also the agents to oversee the
Indians were appointed from Fairfield.

In order, therefore, to understand the
whole history of this tribe of Indians it is important to refer
to the deeds they gave of land in Fairfield, and to preserve
their names the same as the signers of Stratford deeds.

The division line between Stratford and Fairfield passed
through, north and south, the territory which these Indians
had long cultivated, which constituted the open plains that the
new settlers so much desired, that they could not settle the
boundary line themselves and hence called on the General
Court to do it. This they did by retaining the old line,,
nearly through the centre of the plain, allowing the Indians
to still cultivate about eighty acres, called the old Indian
field, near Uncoway River, in Fairfield, and appropriating
eighty more on Golden Hill in Stratford, but making Goldea
Hill the place of residence for all of them.

Indian Deeds. 45

♦

The first deed' is a quitclaim of a large part of the orig-
inal town of Fairfield, and is given by Pequannock Indians in
1656, nearly seventeen years after Mr. Ludlowe took posses-
sion of the territory. In this deed they reserve the " pro-
priety " or ownership of the Indian field, which the3', being
at Fairfield say, " is a small neck of land on y'^ other side of
ye creeke ;" meaning Uncoway creek as elsewhere explained.
That was the neck where the Gentlemen's Trotting Park is
now located, the original field extending northward some
distance from the present park. At the time the deed was
given they were about to build a fort, and the only considera-
tion that they received at the time, apparently, was an agree-

' Fairfield Indian Deed, dated March 20, i6j6.

" Whereas several Indians have made claim to much of y« land y' ye Town of
Fairfield have and do possess, ye Town of Fairfield having taken ye matter
into consideration, ordered and appointed Alexander Knowles, Henry Jackson,
Francis Purdy with several others to treat with Poquanuck Indians concerning
and upon y' treaty with those Indians whose names are under written in y« behalf
of all y^ Pequannock Indians they have agreed as followeth :

"First they owne y' ye land y* ye Town is built upon from ye Creeke y' ye
tide mill of Fairfield southwestward is called Sasqua which they owne has been
purchased* from ye Indians and is now y* English land.

"2. Secondly y" sd. Indians have acknowledged, consented to and granted
y* all that tract of land which they call Uncoway and which is from y^ above sd
Creek eastward unto ye bounds between Fairfield and Stratford, from y"^ See to
run into y*^ country seven or eight miles, for y'^ future it shall be y* land and
propriety of y^ inhabitants of y" Town of Fairfield, giving and granting to ye sd
Town all ye above sd tract of land called Uncoway with all creeks rivers etc. . .
. . only it is to be noticed that the field which y" Indians now possess called y*
Indian field, which is a small neck of land on y" other side of y* creeke is
excepted, y'' Indians still keeping their propriety in that small neck or field. Ye
Indians are to have y" privilege of killing deer within y"^ aboves'^ tract of land,
only they are not to set any traps within y" sd tract of land.

In witness, 20th March, 1656.

" Whereas ye above said land is granted to ye Town of Fairfield by ye sd
Indians: We also manifest our respect unto them y' wee doe engage upon suffi-
cient warning to cart their stuff for them to erect and build a fort yr. Upon this
consideration y" sd Indians have acknowledged y* abovesd grant.

Umpeter Noset, marke. Nimrod or Pocunnoc, marke.

Matamuck, marke. Anthonyes, alias Lotashun, marke.

Weshun, marke."

* " Purchased," means obtained, for in a later deed where all previous deeds
are referred to, this one is the first mentioned.

History of Stratford,

ment on the part of the English to " draw the stuffe," with
which to build this fort, but this may have taken time suffi-
cient to balance quite a sum of money. Whether there had
been a fort there or anywhere within Fairfield bounds is not
stated, but a fort was at some time here, for in 1752, in giving
the bounds of the Stratfield Society at this place, they say,
*' which said cove heads or terminates at or near the place
called the Old Fort.''

Another deed' of the same date — March 20, 1656 — was
given for " land commonly called Sasqua, lying west of
Sasqua swamp, or on the west side of the present Mill River;
Musquat, the first name on this deed, is the same as that on a
deed in Stratford in 1671.

The third deed* was given to cover this same territory or
a part of it because the Indians at Norwalk claimed an
interest in it.

2 Col. Rec, X. 147.

^ Second Indian Deed in Fairfield, date March 20, 16^6.

" This was a deed of " land commonly called Susqua, . . . bounded on y' north-
east with y* land called Uncaway, on y« southwest with ye land at Maximus, ye

line on ye southwest runs close to ye English farms at Maximus from the

sea Straight up into ye country six miles at y^ least."

Musquatt, his mark. Santamartous poppoos,

Taspee, his mark. Willecon,

Ponuncamo, his mark. James, alias Watusewa-

Cramkeago's Squaw,

his mark,
his mark.

Selamartous' Sister
Wissashoes,

satum,
^Vompegan,

his mark,
his mark.

mark.

her mark.
The following signed October 16, 1679.
Creconoe's mark. Chickens'

Indian Witnesses.
Nimrod's mark. Antony's mark."

'' Fairfield Indian Deed of Land claimed by Indians of Norwalk, in which it
is said " Susqua did run west as far as Muddy Creek."
Dated April 11, 1661.

Momechemen, mark. Wenam, mark.

Tolpee, mark, Quanumsooe, mark.

Aucan, mark. Panoucamus, mark.

Maskot, mark. James, marke."

Indian Witnesses.
Mamachim's mark. Weenam's mark."

Indian Deeds.

The next deed^ here noticed — for the deed given in 1670
has not been seen — was given for claims, again, on the whole
township, and a large part of it is given in the note to show
the inside track of the business of buying lands of the Indians,
and also because it was the final one, except for reservations,
for the southern part of the township.

The interpreter in these sales was John Minor of Strat-
ford, and several of these deeds are recorded on Fairfield

* Fairfield Indian Deed, quitclaim, date October 6, 1680.

" Know all men by these presents y' whereas y" towne of Fairfield hath form-
erly bought of y" true Indian proprietors all ye lands contained within their
township bounds which is seven miles broad upon ye sea coast and from ye sea
at least twelve miles into ye country to y" northward of their bounds, bounded on
y® east with y® sd. Town bounds as y" Court hath settled, on ye west with ye
town bounds of Norwake, also Compaw Neck from ye old road to Norwake to
Sagatuck River on ye west, and to ye sea on ye south, for which lands ye Indian
proprietors have given ye sd Towne severall bills of sale — one bill bearing date
20th March, 1656, another bill dated 21 March, i6|^, ye 3d bill bearing date ye 19th
Jan., 1670, by all which bills of sale ye above lands are made over to ye Towne,
Yet for ye maintenance of love and peace between ye sd Towne and us ye Indians
y' wee may prevent trouble, y* neither we nor our heirs nor successors shall make

any further claims We the surviving Indians, inhabitants of Poquanock,

Uncoway, Susqua and Aspetuck do covenant, etc for a valuable considera-
tion do alienate, etc [In this deed the old Indian field was still reserved.]

Witness this 6th day of October, 1680.

John Minor, ) „,. , ^

T , o, J r Witnesses and Interpreter.

John bherwood, )

Old Anthony,

his

mark.

Panums6t,

his mark.

Nimrod,

his

mark.

Pupurah,

his mark.

Woywegun Nasq

ue.

his

mark.

Mamarashock,

his mark.

Yeerusqua,

her

mark.

Nausouate,

his mark.

Washannaesuck,

his

mark.

Sasqua James,

his mark.

Koewop,

his

mark.

Nusenpawes,

his mark.

Cooreco,

his

mark.

Creconoc,

his mark.

Weequombe,

his

mark.

Norwake James

his mark.

Poueri,

his

mark.

Capt. Witree,

his mark.

Youyowwhy,

his

mark.

Iletorow,

his mark.

Patchcock,

his

mark.

Nasacoe,

his mark.

Sasapequun,

his

mark.

Quatiart,

his mark.

Aquonke,

his marke.

Siacus,

his mark."

October 13, 1680,

the

following names were added.

" Hassahan,

marke.

Wampum,

mark

Mittacke,

marke.

Warenet,

marke.

Womsoncowe,

marke.

Choromoke,

mark

£.

Chickins,

rke."

48 Histo7-y of Stratford.

book in John Minor's handwriting, but testified to by Fair-
field town clerk.

On this last deed are many names, some of which we
find on Stratford deeds, and also on deeds given some years
later further up the Housatonic river. Old Anthony, whose
Indian name was Lotashun, was, we imagine, a noble old
Indian, and really very old. Nimrod, whose Indian name
was Pocunnoe, had been prosecuted thirty years before for
killing a Mr. Buttler's hogs, being then a prominent man,
and must have been quite old, and he it was who had his
wigwam on the eastern part of the Golden Hill reservation,
and after whom the lot was named, and known man}^ years,
near where the Bridgeport Gas Works now stand, and in his
honor also was named a steamboat sailing from Bridgeport
nearly two hundred years after Pocunnoe was named Nim-
rod. Quite a number of these names with variations of
spelling are to be seen several times in other deeds hereafter
noticed.

Only one year after the date of the last deed the Pequan-
nock Indians prevailed with Fairfield men to buy their old
field near Uncoway creek, although the Fairfield people urged
them to keep it, as the bill of sale says, and on the i8th of
May, 1681, the deed was signed ; the deed saying, "the Old
Indian field on ye east side of Uncoway River. "^

It is conclusive from the few names attached to this deed

* Fairjield Indian Deed fo7- the Indian field, dated May 18, 1681.
" This sale we have made for a valuable consideration."
Mamerushee Umperenoset's Cape, his mark,

son, mark. Sowvvahose squaw, her mark.

Ponees, his mark. Naushuta's squaw, her mark.

Old Anthony, his mark. Nassansumk Young,

Washaganoset, his mark. Anthony's son, his mark.

Wissawahem squaw, her mark. Choraromokes, his mark."

" Indian Witnesses.
Sasqua James, his mark. Runsh squa, her mark.

Crovecoe, his mark. Pascoe, his mark.

Rorocway, his mark.

" Trushee an Indian who speaks very good English " was emploj'ed by both
parties and signed this deed.

Trushee's mark."

Fairfield Indian Deeds. 49

that quite many of the natives had removed, and we find also
that during the previous year the Paugassett chief petitioned
the General Court for more land to plant, and in October the
Court ordered, and the reservation called Coram was devoted
to their use, so that probably about this time a considerable
emigration occurred to Pootatuck in Huntington, Pompe-
raug on the Housatonic and to Pootatuck in Newtown.

Several other Indian deeds are recorded on Fairfield
books; one of a piece of land called Wolf Pit Neck, in the
southeast part of the town joining Stratford line, dated Feb-
ruary 12, 1685, and sold to Fairfield town.'

This deed and several others are signed by John Burr as
Commissioner, and since it was unlawful for any persons or
towns to purchase lands of the Indians without an order
from the General Court, probably he was appointed to act
in that capacity, and hence may have effected the purchase
under the great oak tree, as tradition has reported, on the
plain about a mile west of the wigwams at the foot of Golden
Hill and in the northern part of the old open field.

This was a grand ancient tree, celebrated as such for the
last two hundred years, but like all the lords of this earth, it
had its day when it flourished and extended its branches to a
great distance, and then came the processes of decay which
were in operation probably more than one hundred years
before the great monarch bowed his proud head and yielded
to inevitable fate. It had attained to about six feet in diam-
eter two feet above ground, and by actual count of the layers
of wood so far as decay would permit, it must have attained
to about four hundred years of age ; when in a strong east-

■■ Fairfield Indian Deed dated Feb. J2, i68j.

" We Indians sell ... for a valuable consideration ... a neck of land called
Wolf Pitt Neck ... on Stratford bounding line on ye northeast, on 3'e other
sides with ye land of ye inhabitants of Fairfield

The mark of Penomscot. The mark of Matamhe.

Cheroramag, his mark. The mark of Kahaco.

The mark of Asoraimpom. The mark of Shaganoset.

*rhe markof Machoka, acunk's Daughter. The mark of Old Anthony.

The mark of Pony. The mark of Matamhe.

The mark of Pascog, Interpreter."

50 History of Stratford.

erly storm in the spring of 1884, it was blown down, and
"great was the fall of it," and then by the fiat of the world-
renowned showman* whose tender mercies and great respect
for old age allowed it standing room in a most beautiful field
for a number of years, although unfruitful, it was hewn in
pieces and disappeared forever.

It is probable, that this celebrated ceremony took place
under the branches of this great spreading oak, when the
old Indian field was sold, which occurred in the balmy
weather of spring on the i8th of May, 1681, just two hun-
dred and three years before it fell by the strong winds from
the great sea. Col. John Burr who held the council with the
Indians and his descendants, owned the land on which this
tree stood nearly two hundred years, their dwelling standing
but a little distance from it. Miss Polly Burr, the last owner
in the family name died in 1874, but had sold it to Hon, P, T.
Barnum previous to her decease.

Another deed' was signed by the Indians for a highway
through their reservation on Golden Hill in June, 1686, which
was very nearly what is now Washington avenue, and this
highway was for the convenience of the English and Indians.
There were residing here then several English families, John
Beardsley, Samuel Gregory, Henry Summers and others, on
and near the old division line between Fairfield and Strat-
ford, which was afterwards called Division street, and now
Park avenue.

The next spring (in 16S7) the General Court ordered the
old King's highway laid out from Stratford to Fairfield, which
highway, after nearly two hundred years, was so unfortunate
as to have its name changed to the insignificant name of

®The Hon. P. T. Barnum.

^ Fairfield Indian Deed for highivay, dated yune 8, 1686.

" A highvva}' from the highway between Fairfield and Stratford [now Park

avenue] into the Indian field called Golden Hill, near where the path

lieth from Samuel Gregory's across the Indian field that goeth toward Stratford."

John Beardsley.

Wowompon, his mark, Pascob, his mark.

Panomscot, his mark, Pany, his mark.

Siacus, his mark. Robin, his mark.

Fairfield Indian Deeds. 5 1

North avenue, thereby losing all its ancient renown and
honor.

Two other deeds are recorded on the Fairfield book ; one
of land " called Umpawage lying westward from Fairfield in
the wilderness;'" the other" "a piece of land about eighteen
or twenty miles from the town of Fairfield ... to the west-
ward of north Fairfield in the woods, called Ompaquag, a
mile square." All the Indians signing these deeds were prob-
ably of the Pequannock tribe, and the last witness to this last
deed — Cashesamay — was the Sachem at Pootatuck (Shelton)
and afterwards at Newtown.

Trouble ivith the Indians.

The Indians made much trouble and brought many diffi-
culties to the English settlers of Connecticut. The expendi-
tures by the latter to defend themselves from the hostilities
and trespasses of the former were more than a fair or proper
value of the land as it was purchased from time to time until
it was all secured by honorable deeds. There were two wars
between the English and Indians in Connecticut ; the one in
1637, and the other in 1675 and 1676, and both, under the cir-
cumstances then existing, were great wars with heavy erpend-

'" Fairfield Indian Deed dated Dec. 2g, 1686.

"This land is by estimation about two miles square, northwest bounds is by

Sagatuck River which runeth by the path that goeth from Paquiag the

English plantateon."

Nanascrow, his mark. Mattake, his mark.

Crekano. his mark. Mamorussuck, his mark.

Tontasonahas, his mark. Washogenoset, his mark.

Womumkawa)', his mark. Aquetwake, his mark.

Taquoshe, his mark.

"Indian Witnesses.

Sasco James, his mark. Panomscot, his mark.

Roben, his mark. Messhawmish, his mark."

'^ Fairfield Indian Deed dated Sept. 12, 1687.

" A parcel of land in Connecticut called Ompaquag, it being a mile square."
Monaquitarah, Sen., his mark. Wamouncaway, his mark.

Nathascon, his mark. Wukerowam, his mark.

" Indian Witnesses.
Mamoroset, Sagawin, his mark. Robben, his mark.

Wanachecompum, his mark. Cashesamay, Sachem, his mark."

52 History of Stratford.

itures and terrible consequences. The first of these was the
Pequot war which began in May, 1637, and closed in June the
same year in a swamp near what is now the village of South-
port, in the town of Fairfield. The attack on the fort of the
Pequots was made by Capt. John Mason and his ninety men
about day-break in the morning of June 5th, and a great vic-
tory was gained, resulting in the killing of many of the Indi-
ans, and the remainder fleeing westward in great haste.
These were pursued by the soldiers, crossing the Connecticut
river and continuing along the shore of the Sound. At New
Haven a number of Indians were killed in a skirmish or bat-
tle, and the same in Stratford where the fugitives were joined
by the Pequannock Indians; and finally the flying Indians
took refuge in a swamp, now located a little north of the vil-
lage of Southport, where they were surrounded, and after
hard fighting some escaped with their lives.

At this time some hostages were taken of the Pequan-
nock Indians and some of their women were sold to servitude
in Connecticut and Massachusetts. The Pequot and Pequan-
nock women and children taken in this war numbering two
hundred'" were all devoted to slavery for life, being distribu-
ted, probably, sold by the governments of Connecticut and
Massachusetts to pay expenses of the war, to the inhabitants
of these commonwealths, and many of them, especially the
male children, according to Governor Winthrop,'' were sold
as slaves at the Bermuda Islands. This Pequot war was a
savage war on the part of the English and produced terrible
results. The historians have apparently nearly alwa3^s
avoided the full particulars and the disgrace of its barbarity.
Even Dr. Trumbull either was ignorant of the aggravating
facts or passed over them too lightly for a historian of high
integrity. The slaughter of so many Indians — six or seven
hundred — besides those assigned to slavery, produced on the
minds of those who remained in the tribes, savages though
they were, a terrible fear, a shudder of horror, but the reac-
tion in their minds was an almost insatiable thirst for revenge,
and this the colonists understood, and so dreaded that it is

'^ Morton, 114.
'^ Ibid, 113.

TJie Pequot War. 53

apparent on almost every movement they made for self-pro-
tection, for fifty years, and the Narraganset, or King Phillip's
War, was planned and carried on by the Indians with double
secrecy and energy' by the remembrance of this Pequot
slaughter, for without it King Phillip could never have
formed the combination of tribes which he did. Also from
the day the Pequots were slain the western Connecticut
Indians had no faith in the white man's religion. Think of
it! There were at the time in the Housatonic valley, from
Long Island Sound northward, between two and three thous-
and docile, friendly Indians, but a dozen reported conversions
to Christianity were not made until the Moravian Mission-
aries came to Scatacook in 1743, and yet these natives mingled
freely and in scores of cases, familiarly with the white set-
tlers during all these one hundred years.

As has been stated, the colonists dreaded and expected
retaliation. Several times during the next seventy-five years
it was rumored, with no foundation for the rumor but the
fears of the whites or the threats of a few irritated natives,
that the Indians of Fairfield county had joined with the
Mohawks in a war of extermination ; and the General Court
sent out companies of soldiers, into Fairfield and Litchfield
counties, to detect, and resist such a combination, even as
late as 1724. As late as during the French and Indian wars
in 1758, this dread and expectation were still cherished and
acted upon all along the western boundaries of Connecticut.

The destruction of the Pequots was ended in the town of
Fairfield, and the Pequannocks were allies and joined in the
fight against the whites, thus connecting Stratford and Fair-
field with that war.

The causes which have been set forth by Dr. Trumbull
for this war were entirely inadequate to the terrible mas-
sacre of seven or eight hundred men, women and children,
even in an Indian fort, and the enslaving of two hundred
other women and children, and the only excuse for the
persons who did it lies in the fact that they had just emigra-
ted from England where such barbarity was the sentiment of
the people, as was clearly exhibited by that people in the
American Revolutionary War.

54 History of Stratford.

Until the year 1643, following- the Pequot war, the
Indians were comparatively quiet and friendly, and the Gen-
eral Court saw the need of making but tew restrictions and
regulations in regard to them, and what they did enact had
as much, or more reference to the conduct of the English than
to the Indians, but in this year and several following, the
doings of the Indians in what is now Fairfield County were
such as to awaken great apprehension for the safety of the
people.

Five plantations were seriously in danger; Stratford,
Fairfield, Norwalk, Stamford and Greenwich, but the last of
these was at the time under the jurisdiction of the New York
Governor. The settlers in each of these localities were not
numerous, and they had had but little time or means to make
preparations against any Indian hostilities. The settlement
at Stratford had been in progress four years, that of Fairfield,
four years, that of Norwalk, three, that of Stamford, two, and
that of Greenwich, three. The number of the Indians then
within the five plantations and their vicinities were, proba-
bly, four or five to every white person, and they had all
advantageous facilities for a complete massacre, or destruc-
tion of the white people. The immediate cause for this dis-
turbance was the war between the Hudson River Indians
and the Dutch at New York. Dr. TrumbulT^ gives the fol-
lowing account of the origin of this Indian and Dutch War:

" The war between the Dutch and Indians began in this
manner. A drunken Indian, in his intoxication, killed a
Dutchman. The Dutch demanded the murderer, but he was
not to be found. They then made application to their gov-
ernor to avenge the murderer. He, judging it would be
unjust or unsafe, considering the numbers ot the Indians, and
the weak and scattered state of the Dutch settlements, neg-
lected to comply with their repeated solicitations. In the
mean time the Mohawks, as the report was, excited by the
Dutch, fell suddenly on the Indians, in the vicinity of the
Dutch settlements and killed nearly thirty of them. Others
fled to the Dutch for protection. One Marine, a Dutch cap-

'4 Vol. i. 138.

Dutch and Indian War. 55

tain, getting intelligence of their state, made application to
the Dutch Governor, and obtained a commission to kill as
many of them as it should be in his power. Collecting a com-
pany of armed men, he fell suddenly upon the Indians, while
they were unapprehensive of danger, and made a promiscu-
ous slaughter of men, women and children, to the number of
seventy or eighty. This instantly roused the Indians, in that
part of the country, to a furious, obstinate and bloody war.

" In the spring, and beginning of the summer, they burnt
the Dutch out-houses; and driving their cattle into their
barns, they burned the barns and cattle together. They killed
twenty or more of the Dutch people, and pressed so hard
upon them that they were obliged to take refuge in their
fort, and to seek help of the English. The Indians upon
Long Island united in the war with those on the main, and
burned the Dutch houses and barns. The Dutch governor,
in this situation, invited captain Underbill from Stamford to
assist him in the war. Marine, the Dutch captain, was so
exasperated with this proceeding that he presented his pistol
at the governor, and would have shot him, but was prevented
by one who stood by him. Upon this one of Marine's tenants
discharged his musket at the governor, and the ball but just
missed him. The governor's sentinel shot the tenant and
killed him on the spot. The Dutch, who at first were so for-
ward for a war with the Indians, were now, when they
experienced the loss and dangers of it, so irritated at the gov-
ernor, for the orders which he had given, that he could not
trust himself among them. He was obliged to keep a con-
stant guard of fifty Englishmen about his person. In the sum-
mer and fall the Indians killed fifteen more of the Dutch
people, and drove in all the inhabitants of the English and
Dutch settlements west of Stamford.

" In the prosecution of their works of destruction, they
made a visit to the neighborhood where Mrs. Hutchinson,
who had been so famous, at Boston, for her Antinomian and
familistical tenets, had made a settlement. The Indians, at
first, appeared with the same friendship with which they used
to frequent her house; but they murdered her and all her

56 History of Stratford.

family, Mr. Collins her son-in-law, and several other persons
belonging to other families in the neighborhood. Eighteen
persons were killed in the whole. The Indians, with an im-
placable fury, prosecuted the destruction of the Dutch, and
of their property, in all that part of the country. They killed
and burned their cattle, horses and barns without resistance.
Their case was trul}^ distressing."

Notwithstanding these calamitous circumstances the gov-
ernor and Court at New Haven felt that they were not at lib-
erty to go to the relief of the Dutch with an armed force
until consultation could be had with the Commissioners of
the other colonies.

" The war was continued several years, and was bloody
and destructive both to the Dutch and Indians. Captain
Underbill had the principal management of it, and was of
great service to the Dutch. He collected a flying army of a
hundred and fifty men, English and Dutch, by which he pre-
served the Dutch settlements from total destruction. It was
supposed, that, upon Long Island and on the main, he killed
between four and five hundred Indians.

" The Indians at Stamford too much caught the spirit of
the western Indians in their vicinity, who were at war with
the Dutch. They appeared so tumultuous and hostile, that
the people of Stamford were in great fear, that they should
soon share the fate of the settlements at the westward of
them. They wrote to the general court at New Haven, that
in their apprehensions there were just grounds of a war with
those Indians, and that if their houses should be burned, be-
cause the other plantations would not consent to war, they
ought to bear the damage.

"At the same time the Narraganset Indians were enraged
at the death of their sachem. The English were universally
armed. The strictest watch and guard was kept in all the
plantations. In Connecticut, every family, in which there
was a man capable of bearing arms, was obliged to send one
complete in arms, every Lord's day, to defend the places of
public worship. Indeed all places wore the aspect of a gen-
eral war.

Dutch and Indian War. 57

" In the year of 1644 the Indians were no more peacea-
ble than they were the year before. Those in the western
part of Connecticut still conducted themselves in a hostile
manner. In the spring they murdered a man, belonging to
Massachusetts, between Fairfield and Stamford. About six
or eight weeks after the m.urder was discovered, the Indians
promised to deliver the murderer, at Uncoway [Fairfield], if
Mr. Ludlow would appoint men to receive him. Mr. Lud-
low sent ten men for that purpose ; but as soon as the Indians
came within sight of the town, they, by general consent, un-
bound the prisoner and suffered him to escape. The English
were so exasperated at this insult that they immediately
seized on eight or ten of the Indians, and committed them to
prison. There was among them not less than one or two
Sachems. Upon this, the Indians arose in great numbers
about the town, and exceedingly alarmed the people, both at
Fairfield and Stamford. Mr. Ludlow wrote to New Haven
f©r advice. The court desired him to keep the Indians in
durance, and assured him of immediate assistance, should it
be necessary and desired ; and a party of twenty men were
draughted forthwith, and prepared to march to Stamford at
the shortest notice. The Indians were held in custody until
four Sachems, in those parts, appeared and interceded for
them, promising that if the English would release them, they
would, within a month, deliver the murderer to justice.''

" Not more than a month after their release, an Indian
went boldly into the town of Stamford, and made a murder-
ous assault upon a woman, in her house. Finding no man at
home, he took a lathing hammer, and approached her as
though he were about to put it into her hand ; but, as she was
stooping down to take her child from the cradle, he struck
her upon her head. She fell instantly with the blow ; he then
struck her twice, with the sharp part of the hammer, which
penetrated her skull. Supposing her to be dead, he plun-
dered the house, and made his escape ; but soon after, the
woman so far recovered, as to be able to describe the Indian,
and his manner of dress. Her wounds, which at first appeared

J^N. H. Col. Rec, i. 134.

58 History of Stratford.

to be mortal, wei^e finally healed ; but her brain was so>-
affected that she lost her reason.

"At the same time, the Indians rose in those parts, with
the most tumultuous and hostile appearances. They refused
to come to the English, or to have any treaty with them, and
appeared in a very alarming manner about several of the
plantations, firing their pieces, and exceedingly terrifying
the inhabitants. They deserted their wigwams, and neg-
lected to weed their corn. The English had intelligence that
the Indians designed to cut them off, and therefore many
judged it unsafe to travel by land, and some of the planta-
tions were obliged to keep a strong guard and watch, night
and day. And as they had not numbers sufficient to defend
themselves, they made application to Hartford and New
Haven for assistance, and they both sent aid to the weaker
parts of their respective colonies. New Haven sent help ta
Fairfield and Stamford, as they were much nearer to them
than to Connecticut.

" After a great deal of alarm and trouble, the Indian who
had attempted the murder of the woman, was delivered up
and condemned to death, and was executed at New Haven.
The executioner cut off his head with a falchion, but it was
cruelly done. He gave the Indian eight blows before he
effected the execution ; yet the Indian sat erect and motion-
less, until his head was severed from his body.'"*

" The Indians this year were almost everywhere trouble-
some, and in some places in a state of high hostility. In Vir-
ginia they rose and made a most horrible massacre of the
English. The Narragansets, regardless of all their convenants
with the English and with Uncas, continued in such hostili-
ties that a party of soldiers were sent to preserve the peace
and security of the people."

Under such circumstances these small plantations on the
shore of the Sound, now within Fairfield county, made but
slow progress. Greenwich was nearly, if not entirely,
deserted, and but for Captain Underbill, Stamford, Norwalk,

See Records of the Colonies, and Winthrop's Journal, p. 352.

Consequences of the War. 59'

Fairfield and Stratford must have been given up for a time.
And as it was, what a living death it must have been to
remain steadfast and not desert the localities. Every family
that could raise a soldier as a watchman, must bring him
forth, if it was the last and only man in the family. What
sleepless nights in those homes; what anxiety if a member
of a family, being out at work, did not return home at the
expected or appointed time. What a war-like appearance
was witnessed every " Lord's day " at the meeting-house,
with one soldier from every family, armed and equipped with
a gun and sword, and all possible war implements.

The cost of this Indian war to the seven plantations
along the Sound was sufficient to have purchased, established,
and perpetuated a separate plantation, if there had been no
Indians. The court at New Haven assessed fines almost
weekly, on persons who were found delinquent in watching
at their posts, or insufficiently provided with arms or ammuni-
tion, as the following items from the New Haven records
most fully show. At a Court holden March 7, 1643 •

Matthew Hitchcock, for a willful neglect to walk the
round when the officers called him, was fined 5^

James Haward, Joseph Thompson, William Bassett,
Anthony Thompson, David Evance, Samuel Wilson and Sam-
uel Haskins, [were] fined, each man, 6"^ "for foole guns."

" Thomas Yale and Jonathan Marsh for the same, 6^ a
piece.

" Richard Perry and his 2 men, William Gibbard and
James Stewart and William Ball, for late coming fined each
man i\

" Roger Knapp, defective, all except gun, fined 5^

" Brother Lamson, defective gun, fined 4^

"Thomas Higginson, James Stewart and James Haward,
defective belt, fined 6''.

" Mr. Eaton's 3 men, Thomas Higinson and his man, for
coming without arms on the Lord's day, fined each man 2^

" Matthew Crowder, Thomas Caffins, Theodore Higgin -
son, James vStewart, Thomas Meaks, Isaac Whitehead, Mat-
thew Row, Richard Mansfield, Thomas lies, Lawrence Wade,
John Hill, John Cooper, Jarvice Boykin, and Mr. Eaton's

6o History of Stratford.

3 men, fined each man 6'', for late coming to the meeting with
their arms, Feb. i8, 1643.

'* It was ordered that the 2^ drum shall be the period of
the soldiers coming on the Lord's day.

" Court holden, May i, 1644.

Brother Perry, being master of a watch and willfull}^ neg-
lecting it, was fined 40^

" Matthew Row, for sitting down to sleep when he
should have stood sentinel, was fined 5^ Brother Nichols,
brother Gibbert, Richard Webb, Thomas Wheeler, Henry
Lendell and William Bassett, fined each man i^ for late com-
ing on the Lord's day with their arms."

Court held June 5, 1644.

" John Chapman being master of a watch and neglecting
it, was fined 10'.

" Mr. Gilbert's man, being absent at his watch, was
fined 5^

" George Larry more for neglecting his watch, fined 2*6''."

Court held at New Haven June 23, 1644.

" It was ordered that the night watches be carefully
attended, and the ward of the Sabbath days be dilligently
observed, and that every one of the trainband bring their
arms to the meeting every Lord's day; also that the great
guns be put in readiness for service ; also that the drum be
beaten every morning by break of day, and at the setting of
the sun.

" It was ordered that every Lord's day 2 men shall go
with every heard of cattle, with their arms fitted for service
until these dangers be over.

" It was ordered that the farmers shall be freed from
watching at the town while there is need of watch at the
farms, provided they keep a dilligent watch there."

New Haven and Milford were much less exposed to the
hostilities of the Indians than the plantations west of them,
and if they needed so great diligence and strictness, how
much more must have been needed by the others?

The troubles resulting from the Dutch and Indian war
quieted down to a considerable extent, after three or four

Consequences of the War. 6r

years, but the Indians of Fairfield County continued to indi-
cate hostile feelings, and committed various depredations,
and some acts of personal violence. In 1649, this spirit
became so threatening, in connection with a murder com-
mitted by an Indian, that the General Court felt compelled
to take definite action," and did in effect declare war against
them, but by a committee consisting of Mr. Ludlow and Mr.
Talcott, the matter was quieted and a siege of war avoided.

During all these efforts for peace and safety, great pains
were taken to keep the Indians from obtaining guns and
ammunition, or means for making war upon the English. In
securing obedience to these regulations they had occasion to
pass a somewhat unusual sentence in 1648, upon David
Provost, a Dutchman, that if he repeated the offence he
should be " shipped for Ireland and sent to the Parliament.'"*

Again in 1652, fears concerning the Indians were aroused
anew, in consequence of the declaration of war between
England and Holland, and it was expected that the war
would be extended to America and assume serious propor-
tions between New England and the Dutch at New Amster-
dam, but after great preparations by the colonies, the war
closed without any serious collisions here, between the
whites, or damages done by the Indians.

''^"This Courte taking into serious consideration what may be done accord-
ing to God in way of revenge of the blonde of John Whittmore, late of Stanford,
and well weighing all circumstances, together with the carriages of the Indians
(bordering thereupon) in and about the premises, do declare themselves that they
do judge it lawful and according to God to make war upon them.

"This Courte desires Mr. Deputy, Mr. Ludlow and Mr. Taylecoate [Talcott]
to ride to-morrow to New Haven, and confer with Mr. Eaton and the rest of the
magistrates there about sending out against the Indians, and to make return of
their apprehensions with what convenient speed they may."

General Court, May, 1648.
'*" Whereas, David Provost and other Dutchmen (as the Court is informed)
have sould powder and shotte to Several Indeans, against the express Lawes both
of the Inglishe and Dutch, It is now Ordered, that if upon examination of wit-
nesses the said defaulte shall fully appeare, the penalty of the lawes of this Com-
monwealth shallbe laid upon such as shallbe found guilty of such transgression,
the which if such delinquents shall not subject unto them shall be shipped for
Ingland and sent to the Parliament." Col. Rec, i. 163.

6i History of Stratford.

"May 1707 This Assembly judgeth it expedient that the
Indian murderer in durance at Fairfield shall and may be
returned to the Indians, that so the Indians may have the
opportunity to execute on him as they shall determine.'"'

It is a matter of conjecture that this Indian was hung at
a place called Gallows Hill, in the southwestern part of the
present town of New Milford, for such an occurrence took
place there, probably, by which the name is found there
when that town was first settled about 1710.

The Golden Hill Indian Fnnd.

In 1802 on the petition of Tom Sherman, Eunice Sherman
and others of the Golden Hill Indians, the State appointed
an agent or overseer to administer their affairs. Abraham Y.
De Witt held this office first, and after him were Josiah
Lacey, Elijah Burritt, Smith Tweedy, Daniel O. Wheeler,
Dwight Morris and Russell Tomlinson, the present incum-
bent.

Besides the dwelling and land at Nichols Farms now
occupied by William Sherman, the Golden Hill fund amounts
to about three hundred dollars.

The Samp Mortar Rock is a peculiarity and mystery. It
is located about three miles north of Fairfield village, in the
town of Fairfield, and is so called, or was so named because
it was supposed that the Indians ground their corn in it. It
is on the very verge of overhanging rocks of about fifty or
sixty feet in height, and consists of a cavity in the top of the
rock about thirteen inches in diameter and ten in depth, and
has been pronounced by the younger Professor Dana, of Yale
College, who has seen it, a " Pot-hole " or cavity worn there
by the action of water and small cobble stones at some period
far back in the ages. The rocky ridge on which it is located
is of several miles in extent, and has been a place of frequent
resort for pic-nics and visiting parties for many years. The
locality forbids the idea of its being constructed there by the
Indians and it is seemingly equally unreasonable that it should
have been made where it is by the action of water, even were

" Col. Rec, V. 28.

Remarkable Indian Relics. 63

the valleys around it filled. It is a curiosity. There is no
evidence that the Indians had an)- encampment of conse-
quence, nearer than three miles from it.

A Poxvzvoiv or Medicine Camp.

A few years after the New York and New Haven rail-
road was completed, or about twenty-five years ago, Mr.
Thomas B. Fairchild of Stratford saw a number of stone posts
standing like hitching posts on a line with the sidewalk
in front of the premises of Mr. William Tuttle, near the
lower wharf in Stratford village, and the novelty and peculiar
appearance of them attracted his attention. Mr. Tuttle had
set them, a few years previous, and left the place, and all that
could be learned as to them by careful inquiry was that the}'
were dug up in making the railroad between Stratford and
Bridgeport, and Mr. Tuttle had brought them to his home and
placed them along the sidewalk as hitching posts and novel
ornaments. Thus the matter passed some years, but Mr.
Fairchild, whose business was in Bridgeport, while in a
state of mysterious inquiry as to these stones, frequently
looked along the road, to ascertain, if possible, where they
were found, and to learn who made them and for what pur-
pose. About two years since, with increasing inquiry as to
these posts, while passing along the road near Pembroke
Pond where some men were excavating by the railroad bank
to lay some pipe to secure fresh water for the Holmes and
Edward's Silver Works, in West Stratford, he saw one of these
posts, but wondered why it should be at that place as consti-
tuting a part of the railroad embankment. On meeting a cart-
man employed at the Cartridge Works, he pointed out the
post and requested him to bring it in the cart to the office, for
it was a peculiar stone and he wanted to preserve it. Upon
which Mr. Bernard Judge said, " Don't I know all about the
posts, and how this post got where it is ? Didn't I do the first
work that ever I did in America on the railroad at this very
place a few rods east of the iron bridge here in West Strat-
ford ? We dug out loads and loads of these posts, and
threw them into the mill pond on the brush and limbs and

64 History of Stratford.

then heaped the dirt upon them. These posts lay in heaps^
partly covered, or under the ground, when we found them,
and we talked about them a good deal, some saying they
were put there by the Indians."

The larger number of these posts are nearly round, six
and seven feet long, from seven to eight inches in diameter;
one that is nearly square, only the corners rounded, being
now in the possession of Mr. Thomas B. Fairchild, at Strat-
ford, has a slot from the top downwards about eight inches
deep and half an inch wide, on the side, as if to let, in a wide
band surrounding a sacred inclosure to keep out intruders.
One of these posts is much larger than any of the others, and
is of oval shape, from ten to twelve inches wide and about
seven thick. Some are broken in pieces, but probably the
larger number of them are still under the railroad bed. They
were found on ground nearly level, at the foot of the hill, near a
large, fine spring of water, and were thrown together, or near
each other as if taken from their original positions and placed
aside, to be out of the way ; and are supposed to have been
used to protect a powwow ground or a medicine camp.

The following is a description of a powwow place found
among the Mandan Indians in Dakota Territory, published
recently in London, in the "North American Indians:"

" In the centre of the village is an open space or public square, 150 feet in
diameter and circular in form, which is used for all public games and festivals,
shows and exhibitions. The lodges around this open space fronts in, with their
doors toward the centre ; and in the middle of this stands an object of great relig-
ious veneration, on account of the importance it has in connection with the annual
religious ceremonies. This object is in the form of a large hogshead, some eight
or ten feet high, made of planks and hoops, containing within it some of their
choicest mysteries or medicines. They call it the Big C2i.noe." — Atlantis, by Igna-
tius Donnelly, iii.

In the present town of Stratford there are but few relics
of the natives to be seen, except quantities of oyster and clam
shells in three localities. At the edge of the marsh west
of the Lordship farm and a hundred rods north of the dwell-
ing on that farm, is still a quantity of clam shells probably
left there by the Indians, but it is not extensive. At a small
fresh water pond on the northern part of the Lordship farm
on the north side of the pound the oyster shells, many of large

Indian Biirying Places. 65

size, are in considerable quantities. They are larg-ely cov-
ered by the soil but are in some places nearly two feet deep.
On the east side of the great neck in several places are beds
of oyster shells left by the Indians, which indicate a long"
occupation of the region in order to make the accumulations.

In some historical notes by Major VV. B. Hinks, published
in i87i,the following note is found: "Several interesting rel-
ics of the Indians were discovered in Stratford a few years
since by the Rev. B. L. Swan. They consisted of a fire-place,
and mortar for grinding corn, excavated in a ledge of rock-
near the house recently occupied by Mr. William Strong,
which was built on the site of an ancient inn, kept during and
before the Revolutionary War by George Benjamin. The
fire-place was a semi-cylindrical upright hollow in the rock,
several feet in height, from the top of which a pot could be
suspended b}- a cross bar. Below it was the mortar with a
rounded stone peslle, as large as a man's head, still lying in
it. Unfortunately these relics were destroyed before meas-
ures could be taken for their preservation.

"Arrow heads in considerable numbers have also been
found at the foot of another ledge a little west of the town on
the lower road to Bridgeport, and it is believed that this was
the place of their manufacture."

Indian Burying Places.

In three places have Indian skeletons been exhumed in
considerable numbers within the territory now covered by
the city of Bridgeport; one in or near what was the old Nim-
rod field near the present Gas Works, one where the Pros-
pect Street School building now stands and the other on the
bluff or hill as it was, South of State street and east of Main.
The one at the Gas Works was greatly disturbed when the
railroad was constructed, and quite a number of skeletons
were taken out, but no implements of any considerable
amount were found, at least none are reported, but this
seems to have been the burial place for the Indians more
largely after the whites came here.

As to the place where the Prospect Street School build-
ing now stands a paragraph from the Bridgeport Standard
5

66 History of Stratford.

for October 28, 1870, is given: "The frequent finding of
Indian bones and skulls in different places about the city sug-
gests the question whether Bridgeport may not have been at
some remote period in the past, one immense Indian hunting
and burying ground. Every few days these bones are being
brought to light by excavation, and now we find by digging
for the new wing of the Prospect Street school house that the
ground there was once quite a large burying place. Some
fifty graves have been exposed and a large number of human
bones and skulls are found buried a few feet below the sur-
face. In some instances these skull bones are perfect, the
jaws with full sets of teeth, being also found in sound condi-
tion. Tobacco pipes have been discovered buried in the
same graves, also a genuine Indian dinner pot, and other
signs and evidences that the bones of many aborigines have
been for many long years quietly resting there, are found.
In each case the body was probably buried in a sitting pos-
ture."

Sacrificed Indian Implements.

In the autumn of 1883, Mr. L. B. Beers and Mr. Robert
W. Curtis, of Stratford, were hunting for Indian relics on the
bank, near the mouth of the Housatonic river, when coming
to a place of clean loam ground Mr. Beers picked up a small
piece of soapstone pot or dish, and Mr. Curtis soon found
another stone that had the appearance of being worked out,
but on examination it was thrown away as of no value. The
hunt being continued Mr. Curtis found a broken piece of
spear head, and directly Mr. Beers picked up a poll or head
of a stone axe and called for the piece that had been thrown
awa}^ which being secured fitted to the head of the axe
perfectly. The idea then came to Mr. Curtis that Indians
would be likely to bury in light loamy earth, and that this
place would be favorable in that respect, and proposed to his
fellow laborer to dig up the ground, and thereupon went to
work with his cane. Soon he struck something hard and
dug it out with his hands and found it to be a large spear
head. After working a little time longer Mr. Beers pro-
posed to look elsewhere, but Mr. Curtis continued the work

Indiafi Burnt Offerings. 6/'

and soon found a small nest of implements, all broken, appar-
ently, by fire heat. On further digging the articles found at
this time were pieces of two axes, two chisels and a few
pieces of other implements.

The search has been continued with intervals to the
present time, and the result is the following, all the articles
being in small pieces in consequence of fire heat:

One axe lo)^ inches long, 6 wide, nicely worked ; one axe
71^ inches long and 4^ wide, approaching round in form ;
one axe 8 inches long and 5 wide, nearly entire and nicely
worked; one tomahawk 4^ inches by 23^; one pestle 13^
inches long, nicely worked ; one pestle 12 inches long, rough ;
one 9 inches long, rough ; eighteen pieces of other pestles ;
nineteen chisels from 3^ inches to 9 in length, some of them
very fine grain stones, some of them coarse ; one soapstone
food dish II inches long, 8 inches wide, 4 in depth, nearly
complete and ornamented with notches on the edge, the
shape is triangular, oval; one soapstone food dish 12 inches
long, 7 inches in width and 3 in depth; five rubbing stones;
one drill 2}^ inches in length, very delicate; one coarse
triangular, cone shaped stone about 4 pounds in weight, use
not known ; 75 pieces of different sizes, comprising knives,
spear and arrow heads; 1,000 pieces of small implements
broken beyond designation.

The supposition is that these implements were from time
to time thrown into sacrificial fires as offerings in worship,
and afterwards buried with quantities of hickory nuts which
were found as charred ashes in great numbers. This subject
may be further treated in a following part of this book in
regard to Indian worship.

ENGLISH HISTORY

CHAPTER IV.

THE CUPHEAG PLANTATION.

1 639- 1 645.

W BEAUTIFUL township, inhabited by a
^'.j. noble people, is the theme of discourse in the
"^'j following pages. Antiquity has a charm
yj for many thousands of persons whose lives
^^^ never reach the half of three-score years
and ten, while equally as many, as the
allotted years are added, grow pathetic by
the increasing remembrance of the halcyon
days which will never more return ; and yet
we love to linger in our thoughts amidst the
realities of early years and the recollection
of those, the number of whose j^ears were
long since inscribed on marble tablets in the
cemetery. Almost two hundred and fifty
3^ears — or from the year 1639 to that of 1884
— is the measure of the period which is to pass in review, as
compassing the history of this locality, to the present time.

Stratford was, and is, a beautiful spot of earth, and they
who have wandered from it have looked back with pride as
well as with longing hearts, and have almost wished that the
destinies of men would have allowed them to tarry by the
old hearthstones of their ancestors until the work of life
should have been accomplished ; and many more will look
back from far distant countries and proclaim with joy that
they descended from the early planters of this good old town.
" Beautiful for situation " was written thousands of years ago,
and yet it is equally applicable to this distinguished locality.
"Old Stratford" was a name fondly cherished, while yet it
was young in years, by those who had gone forth to establish
new plantations, and " Old Stratford " is still a sound of joy

72 History of St7'atford.

and pride to a great circle of its acquaintances as well as its
descendants. Its situation, being- bounded toward the sun-
rising by the placid Housatonic, and on the south by the
ever charming Long Island Sound, was, and is, one of remark-
able attractiveness, and such as never to be forgotten by any
of its wandering sons and daughters. By the side of the
great sea where the tide of the mighty ocean, ever obedient
to the nod of the queen of night, ceases not its life-giving
toil, Stratford sat down as a child in 1639, and thereafter
grew towards maturer years. In historic time, it is still
young, but compared with many of its inland neighbors it is
truly old ; and, as the tale of its legends pass in review, the
ages will seem to have greatly multiplied, and its multitude
of descendants indefinitely extended from ocean to ocean.

Stratford village is located on the Housatonic river
about one and a half miles from Long Island Sound, in Fair-
field county, Connecticut, fourteen miles from New Haven
and fifty-eight miles from New York City. The original
township, being twelve miles in length north and south, and
about seven^'miles wide east and west, comprised most of the
territory now included in the five townships of Stratford,
Bridgeport, Huntington, Trumbull and Monroe; and in this
history it is proposed to complete the record of the whole
of this territory, in uniform style, from the commencement
down to the present time, and as each town is organized out
of the old territory, to lay its history aside until the original
township by name shall have been completed, and then to-
take up again each of the new towns in the order of the date
of their organization, and thus complete the work.

The picturesqueness of the locality is remarkable. The
general slope of the land is towards the Housatonic on the
east and the Sound on the south, and the face of the country
is divided with small elevations of land, called hills, but
scarcely equal to the name, such as Old Mill Hill, Toilsome
Hill, Chestnut Hill, Long Hill, Coram Hill, and the White
Hills ; rising only to such a height as to afford numerous
sites for dwellings, in full view of many miles of water
scenery of the Sound and landscape on Long Island beyond,
and such as to guarantee a high degree of health from the

First Patent of Connecticut. 73

balmy breezes of the Atlantic and the bracing, if not some-
times the biting- winds from the hills at the west and north.
Great vigor of health, longevity of life, and beauty of locality,
have been characteristic of the region, until the fame thereof
has reached from ocean to ocean, and is likely never to grow
less.

Stratford was the seventh plantation settled within the
present territory of Connecticut. Windsor, Hartford and
Wethersfield, the three first, were commenced in the years
1635 and 6; Saybrook was commenced under John Winthrop,
the younger, in 1635, although but few families had arrived
there in 1636. Mr. Davenport's company from London, with
Mr. Pruden's, arrived at New Haven the middle of April,
1638, and the next spring Mr. Pruden and his people who
had remained all winter at New Haven, settled at Milford ;
and in the spring of 1639, a number of families settled at
Stratford, then known b}' the Indian name of Cupheag.

The right of soil and manner of settlement.

The Patent'' for the territory of Connecticut, given by
the Earl of Warwick in 163 1, under King Charles I., included

' The first Patent of Connecticut, given under King Charles I.

"To all people, unto whom this present writing Shall come, Robert, Earl of
Warwick, sendeth greeting, in our Lord God everlasting.

Know ye, that the said Robert, Earl of Warwick, for divers good causes and
considerations him thereunto moving, hath given, granted, bargained, sold,
enfeoffed, alienated, and confirmed, and by these presents doth give, grant, bar-
gain, sell, enfeoff, aliene, and confirm, unto the right honorable William, Viscount
Say and Seal, the right honorable Robert, Lord Brook, the right honorable Lord
Rich, and the honorable Charles Fiennes, Esq., Sir Nathaniel Rich, Knt., Sir
Richard Saltonstall, Knt., Richard Knightly, Esq., John Pym, Esq., John Hamp-
den, John Humphrey, Esq., and Herbert Pelham, Esq., their heirs and assigns,
and their associates forever, all that part of New England, in America, which lies
and extends itself from a river there called Narraganset river, the space of forty
leagues upon a straight line near the sea shore towards the southwest, west and
by south, or west as the coast lieth towards Virginia, accounting three English
miles to the league ; and also all and singular the lands and hereditaments what-
soever, lying and being within the lands aforesaid, north and south in latitude
and breadth, and length and longitude of and within, all the breadth aforesaid,
throughout the main lands there, from the western ocean to the south sea, and all
lands and grounds, place and places, soil, wood, and woods, grounds, havens,

74 History of Stratford.

" all that part of New England, in America, which lies and
extends itself from a river there called Narraganset river,
the space of forty leagues upon a straight line near the sea
shore towards the southwest, west and south, or west as the
coast lieth towards Virginia," and therefore covered more
area than the present State of Connecticut. President Clap
of Yale College described it thus : " All that part of New
England which lies west from Narraganset river, a hundred
and twenty miles on the sea coast ; and from thence in lati-
tude and breadth aforesaid to the sea, which grant extended

ports, creeks and rivers, waters, fishings, and hereditaments whatsoever, lying
within the said space, and ever}' part and parcel thereof. And also all islands
lying in America aforesaid, in the said seas, or either of them, on the western
coasts, or parts of the said tracts of lands, by these presents mentioned to be given,
granted, bargained, sold, enfeoffed, aliened, and confirmed, and also all mines
and minerals, as well, royall mines of gold and silver, as other mines and rr:in-
erals, whatsoever, in the said land and premises, or any part thereof, and also the
several rivers within the said limits, by what name or names soever called or
known, and all jurisdictions, rights, and royalties, liberties, freedoms, immuni-
ties, powers, privileges, franches, preeminences, and commodities whatsoever,
which the said Robert, Earl of Warwick, now hath or had, or might use, exercise,
or enjoy, in or within any part or parcel thereof, excepting and reserving to his
majesty, his heirs, and successors the fifth part of all gold and silver ore, that
shall be found within the said premises, or any part or parcel thereof: To have
and to hold the said part of New-England in America, which lies and extends and
is abutted as aforesaid. And the said several rivers and every parcel thereof, and
all the said islands, rivers, ports, havens, waters, fishings, mines, minerals, juris-
dictions, powers, franchises, royalties, liberties, privileges, commodities, heredita-
ments and premises, whatsoever with the appurtenances, unto the said William,
Viscount Say and Seal, Robert, Lord Brook, Robert, Lord Rich, Charles Fiennes,
Sir Nathaniel Rich, Sir Richard Saltonstall, Richard Knightly, John Pym, John
Hampden, John Humphrey and Herbert Pelham, their heirs and assigns and their
associates, to the onl)' proper and absolute use and behoof of them the said Wil-
liam, Viscount Say and Seal, Robert, Lord Brook, Robert, Lord Rich, Charles
Fiennes, Sir Nathaniel Rich, Sir Richard Saltonstall, Richard Knightly, John
Pym, John Hampden, John Humphrey and Herbert Pelham, their heirs and
assignes, and their associates for ever more. In witness whereof the said Robert
Earl of Warwick, hath hereunto set his hand and seal, the ninteenth day of
March, in the seventh year of the reign of our sovereign Lord Charles, by the
Grace of God, King of England, Scotland, France and Ireland, defender of the
faith, &c. Annoq. Domini, 1631.

Signed, sealed, and delivered, Robert Warwick."

in the presence of

Walter Williams

Thomas Howson

First Patejit of Connecticut. 75

from Point Judith to New York ; and from thence in a west
line to the South Sea : and if we take Narraganset river in
its whole leng-th, this tract will extend as far as Worcester,
and comprehends the whole of the colony of Connecticut
and much more.""

The title to this land was given to the Earl of Warwick by
the Plymouth Company of England. On " the 3d of Novem-
ber, 1620, just before the arrival of Mr, Robbinson's people in
New England, King James 1., by letters patent, under the
great seal of England, incorporated the Duke of Lenox, the
Marquis of Buckingham and Hamilton, the Earls of Arundel
and Warwick, and others, to the number of forty noblemen,
knights and gentlemen, by the name ' of the Council estab-
lished at Plymouth in the county of Devon, for the planting,
ruling and governing of New England in America,' — 'and
granted unto them and their successors and assigns, all that
part of America, lying and being in breadth from forty de-
grees of north latitude from the equinoctial line, to the forty-
eighth degree of said northerly latitude inclusively, and in
length of and within all the breadth aforesaid, throughout
the main lands from sea to sea.' The patent ordained that
this tract of country should be called New England in
America, and by that name have continuance forever.*" In
1630, this Plymouth Company conveyed to the Earl of War-
wick the territory named in the Connecticut Patent, and
which he sold, as above, to the parties named in that Patent
to the number of eleven persons.

When the companies settled at Windsor and Hartford,
they supposed they were within the jurisdiction of the Mas-
sachusetts Bay company, but soon became aware of their
mistake, and on the arrival of the younger Governor Win-
throp soon after to make a settlement at Saybrook and to be
governor of Connecticut one year, there was talk of removing
from Hartford, Windsor and Wethersfield, but finally the
two governments were united at Hartford.

It was in the latter part of the year 1636 that trouble

* Manuscripts of President Clap. Trumbull, p. 28.

* Trumbull, p. 20.

"J^ History of Stratford.

began between the Pequots and the Connecticut settlements^
which resulted in the annihilation of that tribe in June of the
next year, and by which the English took the Pequot coun-
try as conquered territory; and by which also they took
possession in March, 1638, of the country west of the Quinni-
piac to the Hudson river, as conquered country, in conse-
quence of the Indians of this territory being allies of the
Pequots, and joining with them in the fight.

Before giving proof of the above statements some notice
must be taken of the declarations of historians, that the first
planters at Stratford and Fairfield bought these townships of
the Indians, in favor of which there is scarcely a scrap of
record to be found, except in the publications hereafter men-
tioned.

Dr. Trumbull, who was a very careful collector of his-
tory— although he made a decided mistake this once, at least
— says :

" The whole township [Stratford] was purchased of the
natives; but first Cupheag and Pughquonnuck only, where
the settlements began. "^ The settlement did not begin at
Pequannock, within Stratford bounds, until twenty years
after that at Cupheag; besides, in the Colonial records the
Indian name Peqnannuck was sometimes applied in a gen-
eral way to the settlement at Cupheag, or Stratford village,,
but generally to the open country in Fairfield adjoining
Stratford line and including a part of Stratford territory at
that place. Of Fairfield he says: "The first adventures
purchased a large tract of land of the natives," — which was,
as will be seen, wholly erroneous, so far as any records show.

Noah Webster, LL.D., in his History of the United States^
printed in 1842, says:

" Mr. Ludlow, of Windsor, who had traversed the lands
west of Quinnipiac, in pursuit. of the Pequots in 1637, was so
well pleased with their fertility, that he and a few friends
purchased a large tract at Unquoway, and began a settlement
in 1639, called Fairfield. In the same year a company of

* Dr. Trumbull, i. no, Ibid., 109.

The First Settlement. jy

■men from England and Massachusetts purchased Cupheag
and Poquonnoc, and began the town of Stratford.'""

Mr. J. W. Barber and others have followed this same
erroneous supposition concerning the purchase of these
plantations of the Indians before 1659, for which there was
never a scrap of record or an authenticated tradition until
these historians made them, as far as can be ascertained.
Every Indian deed of lands in Stratford bears a date of more
than twenty years later than the first settlement of the town
and the deeds were then made more as a mutual friendship
act than for any other reason. The truth is — and it only
illustrates, that historians have too little time to bestow on
their work — that Dr. Trumbull and all the other writers
wholly overlooked certain papers recorded in the first vol-
ume of Stratford records, which give a clear elucidation of
this subject. Indeed, the Indian deeds of later years prove,
in their statements, that there were no purchases of these
lands before 1656.

The plantations of Stratford and Fairfield were always
under the government of the Connecticut Colony and never
under or connected with the New Haven Colony. The
cause securing this relation was the possession of this terri-
tory by Connecticut and the direction given by that Colony
in the settlement of these localities. The claim to this terri-
tory was based on the acquisition of it as conquered countr}',
and, in addition, a treaty was made with the Indians for the
specific purpose of settlement. The evidence of these facts
is contained in several papers, made under oath, and recorded
at Stratford in 1659, twenty years after the whites first came,
by which the Court at Hartford decided that the lands then
occupied by Stratford and Fairfield rightly belonged to those
towns.

These papers may be seen in full on pages 10 to 15 of this
book, as a part of the Indian history ; and as authority they
are important documents. These persons were : the Rev.
John Higginson, a prominent minister living at Guilford at
the time, Thomas Stanton, of Hartford, Indian interpreter,

^Webster's Hist. U. S., 97.

78 History of Stratford.

Lieut. Thomas Wheeler, at first of Fairfield but afterwards
of Milford, and John Minor, interpreter to the Indians
and for some years tow.n clerk at Stratford before his removal
to Woodbury. The items given by these persons are the fol-
lowing. Mr. Edward Hopkins and Mr. William Goodwin,
then prominent men, were employed by the Court at Hart-
ford to " treat with the Indians in regard to the land from
Quinnipiac to the Manhattoes " (New York), and that Mr.
Higginson accompanied them, as interpreter : that after giv-
ing notice to, and inviting the sachems and principal men of
the tribes from Quinnipiac to the Hudson river, they met at
Norwalk in the last week in March in 1638 (really the begin-
ning of the year 1638), not quite a year after the conquest of
the Pequots, and after a day's consultation in full council, all
the tribes being well represented, the Indians gave the land
to the English, without consideration except the protection
they should thereby secure against other Indians. In this
surrender they reserved only their planting grounds, which
were located at that time on the Pequannock plain.

In these papers it is also claimed that the territory,
specially of Stratford and Fairfield, was conquered country,
for the reason that the tribes inhabiting it were tributary to
the Pequots at the time, and that they being led specially by
the Pequannock tribe, which was the most numerous, joined
with the Pequots as they fled, the year pi-evious, and aided
them in the battles or skirmishes at Quinnipiac, Cupheag,
Pequannock and Sashquaket swamp. It was claimed, and it
is said that the Indians acknowledged, that if the Pequot
country was conquered territory and not to be paid for, so
also was that owned by those who joined them in the fight.
Mr. Higginson states that the object of this treaty was par-
ticularly to secure the land for future settlements, and keep
it from the possession of the Dutch ; and that a deputation
of Indians returned with the commissioners to Hartford and
did ratify the agreement with a meeting of the Court, held
in Mr. Hooker's barn.

Mr. Nicholas Knell, a prominent planter at Stratford,
confirmed the testimony of Mr. Higginson, and it is said that
numbers of persons would do the same, and that it was upon

The First Settlement.

the right to the soil thus obtained that the Connecticut
Colony proceeded to induce settlers to locate upon these
lands, beginning in 1638, probably \v.ithin two months after
the council held with the Indians at Norwalk.

The New Haven and Milford companies, not being
aware of this acquisition by the cost of many lives, and the
treaty, took possession of the Ouinnipiac lands about fifteen
days after the treaty was ratified, and afterwards purchased
the same of the natives ; but they were, as appears from these
papers, as to the right of the soil obtained from the Indians,
squatters on Connecticut territory. Also the planters at
Norwalk, Stamford and Greenwich, not being aware of the
acquisition and treaty, and the General Court not urging its
claims, purchased their lands of the tribes living at those
places.

The Connecticut Court, however, proceeded at once to
induce settlers to establish themselves at Stratford and Fair-
field, and probably succeeded in directing a few families to
locate in each place in the year 1638, and several more in
1639.

On the loth of October, 1639, Mr. Ludlow then residing
at Windsor, and being Deputy Governor, made a journey to
New Haven and thence to Pequannock and Unco way, where
he located some cattle for the winter, and laid out lots of
land " for himself and others." Upon his return to Hartford,
there arose some misunderstanding as to what he had
done, and the Governor — Mr. Haynes — and Mr. Wells
were appointed a commission to visit these places, already
inhabited by a number of settlers, under the following direc-
tions :°

"They are desired to confer with the planters at Pequan-
nocke [Fairfield and Stratford], to give them the oath of
fidelity, make such free as they see fit, order them to send
one or two deputies to the two General Courts in September
and x\pril, and for deciding of differences and controversies
under 40^ among them, to propound to them and give them
power to choose seven men from among themselves, with

® Conn. Col. Records, 36.

8o History of Stratford.

liberty of appeal to the Court here; and also to assign Ser-
geant Nichols for the present to train the men and exercise
them in military discipline ; and they are farther desired to
speak with Mr. Pruden and that Plantation, that the differ-
ence between them and Pequannocke plantation [Stratford]
may be peaceably decided, and to this end that indifferent
men may be chosen to judge who have most right to the
places in controversy and most need of them, and accord-
ingly determined as shall be most agreeable to equity and
reason.'"

This act of the Court in October, 1639, to make freemen
in addition to some who already resided here, who should
vote in the election of representatives, was the legal recog-
nition of these plantations as a part of the Government of
Connecticut ; and the fulfillment of these orders constituted
the organization of the towns, but this was done only in part
according to the acceptance of the report of the Governor
and Mr, Wells the following i6th of January, 1639;' and the
commission was renewed the next April (9, 1640), as follows :

"It is ordered that Mr. Haynes, Mr. Ludlow and Mr.
Welles shall settle the division of the bounds betwixt
Pequannocke and Unco way e, by the 24th day of June next,
according to their former Commission: And also that they
tender the Oath of Fidelity to the Inhabitants of the said
Townes, and make such free as they shall approve of.'"

But before the date specified had arrived, namely, the
15th of June, 1640, other persons were appointed to attend
this work, as follows :

" It is Ordered, that Mr. Ludlow, Mr. Hopkins and Mr.
Blakeman shall survey and divide and set out the bounds
betwixt the Plantations of Cupheag and Uncoway, provided
if they cannot accord, Mr. Welles at his next coming to those
parts shall issue it."'°

•> Col. Rec. i. 36.

* The year ending the 25th of March, 1639 ; but 1640 as we now begin the
3'ear.

^Conn. Col. Rec, 47.

'<' Conn. Col. Records, 53.

The First Settlement. 8 1

In the order for April 9, 1640, these plantations are called
towns, indicating their standing as incorporated parts of the
government ; and the same, with other items may be seen
in another order of the Court in June 15, 1640," when Mr.
William Hopkins of Cupheag is appointed and sworn as the
first Magistrate of that town. On the 13th of April, 1643, it
was " Ordered, that one or two of the Magistrates shall be
sent to Stratford and Uncoway, to join with Mr. Ludlow for
the execution of justice, twice this year, namely, the last
Thursday in April and the last in September. Captain
Mason and Mr. Wells are appointed for the last in April.'""

Stratford does not appear to have sent representatives to
the General Court until 1642, when Philip Groves filled that
position. The taxes for Stratford and Fairfield were col-
lected together as one plantation until 1647, when they were
ordered by the Court to be divided. Also their courts were
held jointly some years by magistrates appointed for the
purpose.

The difficulty of ascertaining the date when Stratford
was made a town, with many other items as to its organiza-
tion and first settlement, is in consequence of the town
records for ten of the first years having disappeared. These
records probably consisted of a volume or small book, fools-
cap size, about half an inch thick, which was called "folio."

Not only were the plantations of Stratford and Fairfield
called towns in April, 1640, but they had freemen who no
doubt voted in the adoption of the first constitution, in Jan-
uary, 1638 (O. S.), they being a part of the government at the
time, and hence in no great hurry to effect an organization of
the town which would be burdensome to maintain ; for dur-

^' " Whereas by an Order the 14th of January 1638, none is to be chosen a
Magistrate but such as are propounded in some General Court before, yet not-
withstanding, as Cupheag and Uncoway are somewhat far distant from this Court,
and there is a necessity for the dispensation of justice in those Towns, therefore
in the mean and until the next General Court of Election, that it is thought meet
and so ordered, that Mr. William Hopkins of Cupheag be a Commissioner to
join with Mr. Ludlow in all Executions in their particular Court or otherwise,
and is now sworn to that purpose." Col. Rec, 53.

15 Col. Rec, 86.
6

82 History of Stratford.

ing several years after the commencement of the settlement
they seem to have been released from taxes, and perhaps this
is the reason why representatives were not sent earlier than
they were.

This first Constitution of Connecticut was a remarkable
paper, and ever will be a great honor to Roger Ludlow, then of
Fairfield, who drew it, as well as to the men who adopted it.
The basis of this paper was an independent republic, there
being in it no reference to king or queen or monarchy or any
other government except itself, which is very remarkable
when remembering that all those who were then to act as
freemen under it were just come from a kingdom of remarka-
ble dignity and renown.

Dr. Trumbull, in his History of Connecticut, remarks
upon this instrument as follows:

"This probably is one of the most free and happy con-
stitutions of civil government which has ever been formed.
The formation of it, at so early a period, when the light of
liberty was wholly darkened in most parts of the earth, and
the rights of men were so little understood in others, does
great honor to their ability, integrity and love to mankind.
To posterity indeed, it exhibited a most benevolent regard.
It has been continued, with little alteration, to the present
time [1818]. The happy consequences of it, which, for more
than a century and a half, the people of Connecticut have
experienced, are without description.""

A recent writer'* has the following passage in regard to
this constitution as formulated by Mr. Ludlowe :

" The Calient feature of Ludlowe's career, the grand
achievement of his life, was his large share in originating and
putting into practical operation the original laws of Con-
necticut. When, after the Pequot war, the General Court
met to decide upon a frame of government, he was unani-
mously appointed to make the draft. Of this great paper it
is not too much to say, briefly, that in its immediate applica-

" Trumbull, 103.

''' Mr. Wm. A. Beers, in Magazine of American History, April, 1882.

The First Constitution, 83

tion and far-reaching results it ranks with the best that have
been formulated by the profoundest statesmen. It was not
perfect : Ludlowe was not a perfect legislator ; but it ap-
proached so near completeness, that Dr. Leonard Bacon said
of it: ' It is the first example in history of a written Constitu-
tion— a distinct organic law, and defining its powers.' "

CHAPTER V.

THE FIRST PLANTERS.

1639-1651.

EGINNING in a wilderness, bordering on
the great sea, a settlement of English inhab-
itants, for the perpetuation of posterity
under the broad principles of religious free-
dom and uprightness, as well as an enlarged
perception of civil rights, was the honored
privilege of the first planters of Stratford.
Admitting that their opinions of religious
and civil liberty were not equal to those
entertained two hundred years later, yet, the
advanced position which they took upon
emigrating from the Jerrible restrictions
placed by their native country, upon the
ideas which the}^ did entertain, was and is
still, a marvel in itself; and it has proved
already to be the germinating seed which has been scattered
to a joyful extent to nearly every nation under the sun.
Notwithstanding some odium of Blue Laws, the originating
point of liberty in its best applications, for two hundred and
fifty years, has been the State of Connecticut ; and, among
the very earliest protestants against restrictions upon such
freedom were found prominent planters at Stratford. Dark-
ness in the thought-world as well as in the physical, is only
dispelled by the incoming of light ; and as light penetrates,
the mental soil becomes prolific, the same as the physical,
and hence America has grown from its small beginnings at
the germ principles of mighty freedom, to its present mar-
velousl}^ grand proportions of national liberty and goveriivicnt.
In the history of the world, nothing has ever half equaled

TJie name of the Township. 85

this growth, nor the completeness, and marvelous develop-
ments of national gov ernmQut and freedom.

Stratford began with a few families ; grew and prospered
until it surpassed many of its neighbors and thereafter sent
forth an innumerable number of families to establish and
replenish other plantations in the exercise of the same energy
and expanding thought that marked its own early history,
and which have secured for it a fame highly honorable to any
people. It was recognized first as an established plantation,
in 1639, although tradition reports that one family — William
Judson — if not more, settled here in the year 1638.

That it was settled by a number of inhabitants in 1639, is
evident not only from tradition, but from the following
extracts from the records of the General Court, October 10,
1639:' "And Mr. Governor [John Haynes] and Mr. Wells
[Thomas Wells, afterwards Governor] were intreated to
attend this service, [to view the plantation laid out by Mr.
Ludlow], and they are desired to confer with the planters at
Pequannocke, to give them the oath of fidelit}^ make such
free as they see fit, order them to send one or two deputies
to the General Courts of September and April, and for
deciding of differences and controversies under 40% among
them, to propound to them and give them power to choose
7 men from among themselves, with liberty of appeal to
the Court here ; as also to assign Sergent Nichols for the
present to train the men and exercise them in military disci-
pline : and they are further desired to speak with Mr.
Prudden, and that plantation that the difference between
them and Pequannocke plantation may be peaceably decided,
and to this end that different men may be chosen to judge
who have most right to the places in controversy and most
need of them, and accordingly determine as shall be most
agreeable to equity and reason."

According to this the plantation was settled so far as to
have men enough to be exercised in training, and so as to
choose seven men as a court for matters under 40^ of value ;
and also there was a difference as to boundaries between the

1 Col. Rec, i. 36.

86 History of Stratford.

two plantations, Stratford being called Pequannock; and the
Court sought to have them send deputies, as a township.

This indicates that Mr. Blakeman and his company had
arrived from Wethersfield, for without them there would
have been too few to meet the supposition of the Court.

At this time the plantation is called Pequonnocke, by the
Court, and in June 1640, it is called Cupheag, and the same
the next September, and in April, 1643, it is called Stratford.
The name therefore, must have been changed between
September, 1640, and April, 1643.

As to the name, Stratford, and how it became the name
of this locality, there are some interesting items. Hon.
James Savage, author of a Genealogical Dictionary, speaking
of Thomas Alsop and his brother Joseph Alsop at New
Haven, says: "It may be that the father of these youth
was that of John Alsop, rated for a subsidy in 1598, to the
same parish and at the same time with William Shakespear,
nor would it be very extravagant to suppose, that he too went
up to London from Stratford on Avon," and thence came to
America, and also to Stratford among the first settlers, per-
haps in 1639, ^'^d that through him the name was thought of
and used. It has been suggested that since Samuel Sherman,
an early settler at Stratford, came from near Stratford, Essex
county, England, quite another place from that where Shakes-
pear was born, the place ma}' have been named after this
town in Essex by the suggestion of Mr. Sherman ; but it
should be remembered that the Connecticut Stratford was
so named ten years or more before Samuel Sherman settled
in it, and therefore he had nothing to do with naming it.*

A company, it is said, was organized at Wethersfield
with Mr. Adam Blakeman as minister, for the purpose of
settlement at Cupheag. Some of this compan}' were persons
who had been connected in church relations with Mr.
Blakeman in England and had accompained him thither, and
others joined him at Wethersfield. Tradition says there
were fourteen or fifteen in this company, and it has appeared
in print that there were seventeen, but it is impossible, now,

See Biographical Sketch of Wm. Beardsley.

First Settlers of Stratford. 8/

to fix the number. Several of the first planters had grown-
up sons, over twenty-one years of age, and if these were
counted, the number, apparently, must have been over seven-
teen.

The location at first of quite a number of families in the
southern part of the present village of Stratford, near the
site of the first meeting house, may indicate that they came
to the place at the same time and made their homes near
each other for better protection against the Indians.

It is also improbable that a compan}' of families with Mr.
Blakeman as their minister, should come from VVethersfield
to settle at Stratford without some agreement or specific
understanding about the ownership of the land, as it was then
not only under the supervision of the Court, but claimed by
it as conquered and ceded territory. Hence we find in 1656
the General Court confirms the boundaries and consequently
the right of the soil to the inhabitants then residing here, in
these words: "This Court, at the request of Stratford, doe
graunt that their bounds shall be 12 myle northward, by
Paugasitt River, if it be att the dispose by right of this
Jurisdiction ;" and therefore the inhabitants then in the town,
some of them or all, were the owners of this territory, by
agreement with the Court.

All the proceedings of the town, from the first record
now remaining, are founded upon the implied ownership by a
company of first settlers. It appears by the records, and
tradition confirms the same, that about the year 1650 the
records, then kept in a private house, were accidentally
burned, destroying every entry made from 1639 to that time,
and then the claims of the settlers, most of them, were
reentered by the tow^i clerk, as the parties described them
and as was generally known to be the facts. After this, when
new parties came into the town, the}^ were granted a home
lot of about two acres free, upon condition that they would
build upon and improve it for three years, after which they
could sell it to their own profit if they desired so to do.
Hence most of the entries are dated in 165 1 or later; one
land record bears the date of 1648, and one town meetmg act
bears that of 1650.

88 History of Stratford.

If a definite aiithoritativ^e account or biographical sketch
of each of these original first settlers could be given, in-
cluding the place of birth, social and civil relations and a
statement of the leading occurrences which drove them to
emigrate to this country, it would be a portion of histor}' of
much value as well as of decided interest. We know in a
general way the causes of this emigration, but as to individu-
als we have no particulars except those of Mrs. Mirable, the
wife of John Thompson. In the absence of such information
as we would be delighted to obtain, we must be content with
the few items which can now be gleaned from the desolated
and long neglected field.

The settlement of Stratford was not made by a company
organized for the purpose in England as was the case with
several other towns, but by individuals, in a kind of inde-
pendent or isolated way, except those who came in company
with Mr. Blakeman. These seem to have been more numer-
ous than has been generally conceded. Of some of the
families settled here it is stated that they came direct from
England, but as no vessels landed at Stratford these must
have come through Massachusetts, and hence may have
joined Mr. Blakeman's company at VVethersfield, or, under
a concert of arrangement, joined him at Stratford in the
Spring of 1639. The fact that there were a certain number
of proprietors, or patentees, or owners of the whole territory,
necessarily requires concert of action under some specific
agreement with the General Court, and that, too, for some
consideration of value, else they could have had no right to
the exclusion of others. These were 15, perhaps 17, and if
any others came they were required to buy land of these 17,
individuall}' or collectively, or receive it by gift from the
town. Dr. Trumbull's statements, for want of thoroughness
of research as to the purchase of the township of the natives,
are so erroneous that his other statements may be taken with
some doubt, yet in regard to the coming of the first principal
settlers he may be nearly correct, for he probably obtained
his information in this particular from aged living persons
who at that date would be likely to retain the facts. He
says :

First Settlers of Stratford. 89

"Mr. Fairchild, who was a principal planter, and the first gentleman in the
town vested with civil authority,'' came directly from England. Mr. John and Mr.
William Curtiss and Mr. Samuel [should be Joseph] Hawley were from Roxbury,
and Mr. Joseph [should be William] Judson and Mr. Timothy [should be William]
Willcoxson from Concord in Massachusetts. These were the first principal gen-
tlemen in the town and church of Stratford. A few years after the settlement
commenced, Mr. John Birdseye removed from Milford and became a man of emi-
nence both in the town and church. There were also several of the chief planters
from Boston, and Mr. Samuel Wells, with his three sons, John, Thomas and
Samuel, from Wethersfield, Mr. Adam Blakeman, who had been episcopally
ordained in England, and a preacher of some note, first at Leicester and after-
wards in Derbyshire, was their minister, and one of the first planters. It is said
that he was followed by a number of the faithful into this country, to whom he was
so dear, that they said, in the language of Ruth, ' Intreat us not to leave thee, for
whither thou goest we will go ; \\\y people shall be our people, and thy God our
God !' These, doubtless, collected about him in this infant settlement."

Mr. John W. Barber, writing in 1836, says:

"The first settlers appear to have located themselves about one hundred and
fifty rods south of the Episcopal Church, the first chimney being erected near that
spot ; it was taken down about two years since. The first burying ground was
near that spot. Mr. William Judson, one of the first settlers, came into Stratford
in 1638. He lived at the southwest corner of Meetinghouse hill or green, in a
house constructed of stone. Mr. Abner Judson, his descendant, lives on the same
spot, in a house which has stood one hundred and thirteen years, and is still in
good repair."

The fact, repeatedly recorded, of the divisions of the
common land proves that the town was owned by a certain
number of persons, who, as proprietors of the whole (and if
so then these persons obtained these shares or rights of the
General Court which claimed the ownership at the time),
secured the same for some consideration or stipulation, which
was, probably, the simple fact of taking possession by actual
settlement by a certain number of inhabitants within a speci-
fied time; for this was a method pursued in other towns at
the time and soon after.

Common land, or "the commons," was land not divided
or disposed of; "sequestered" was that given away, either

'This is an error according to the Conn. Col. Records, i. 53, "Genl. Court,
June 15, 1640, . . . It is so ordered that Mr. William Hopkins of Cupheage be a
commissioner to join with Mr. Ludlowe in all Executions in their particular court
or otherwise and is now sworn to that purpose." This was for Cupheag and Un-
coway, before Mr. Fairchild was elected magistrate.

go History of Stratford.

for public or private use, but generally for public ; "divis-
ions" were a certain number of acres surveyed to each and
every proprietor, which sometimes were measured into lots
which were numbered and the numbers being put on paper
and into a hat or box were drawn out, one to each proprie-
tor; this was called drawing lots.

The " Common Field " was land for cultivation, owned
by several or all of the proprietors, and a fence made around
the whole instead of each making a fence around his own, for
which latter work too much time would be required. There
were two of these common fields. The first was constructed
by making a fence from the brook on the west side of Little
Neck to the swamp west and then down to the marsh, and
thus shutting all the cattle and swine out into the forests
northward. When the present records begin this first com-
mon field is frequently called the Old Field, and this name is
still applied to a considerable part of the territory imme-
diately south of Stratford village.

The second common field was made before the year 1648,
since that is the date when Robert Rice has land recorded as
being in that field. This was called the New Field, and was
made by a fence running west across Claboard hill to what is
now Buce's brook or still further to Mill creek. This is
indicated by a record made March 5, 1665-6, locating a part
of the fence at the northeast corner of the field and south-
ward.' This field was then reserved for a " winter field ;"
that is, the fence was kept up and gates closed in order to
leave the corn and stacks of hay and grain in that field secure
from the cattle during the winter. Some years the Old Field
was kept for the same purpose — a " winter field."*

A few years later, that is before 1652, another field was
constructed by a fence across the neck about where Old Mill
Green now is, from Mill Creek to Pequannock River, which

^ " It was agreed at a lawful [town] meeting that the New field shall be kept
for a winter field the two following years and liberty for a fence to be drawn along
the swamp on the east side of Claboard Hill and so down to the old swamp land
to the creek."

•*" Oct. 10, 1664. It was agreed that the Great Neck shall be kept this year
for a winter field."

First Settlers of Stratford. QF

was called the " New Pasture," and afterwards the southern
part of this field was called " New Pasture Point." About
the same time, perhaps a little earlier, another field was made
up the Housatonic river, called the " Oxe Pasture," which
is frequently mentioned on the records.

It should be remembered that these fields were largely
without forests when the white settlers first came. Probably
the Old Field, and perhaps some part of the land where
Stratford village was located had been somewhat cultivated
by the Indians before the settlers came, at least it was largely
cleared from forests, for if it had not been, so few inhabitants
could not have cleared it and laid out a village with such
regularity, to such an extent, as was done within four or five
years. For in 1639 or 1640 the principal company of settlers
came from Wethersfield, and in 1648 the village plot was all
laid out, and, apparently, had been for several years. The
tradition is that they came on foot and horseback, and forded
the river to reach the west side, which seems almost if not
quite incredible since the depth of the river at present pre-
cludes a supposition of fording it. The strong indications
are that they came by boat, and if they did not their house-
hold goods did, and were landed at the mouth of Mack's
creek, where they made their first tents or huts, houses, and
meeting house, and afterwards laid out their village upon a
very appropriate and beautiful plan, and thus it remains to-
day with but few changes as to its principal streets. When
they had laid the highways they proceeded to make the first
division, which was a home lot, a piece of meadow, and a
piece of upland for planting; the home lot containing usually
two and a half acres, and the other pieces varying according
to quality ; all distribution of lands being passed by vote at
the town meetings. When after planters came a grant of
two and a half acres was made to them free of cost upon con-
dition that they should build a dwelling upon it and improve
it during three years, after which they could keep it or sell
it at their own pleasure. These grants were called " home
lots," but when a dwelling had been erected upon them they
were called " house lots."

The oldest date of such a lot or of anything, now upon

92 History of Stratford.

record, is that of Robert Rice's lands, Sept. i6, 1648 ; all
previous to this having been lost or destroyed ; — said to have
been burned, probably by accident, they having been kept in
a private house.

It is quite certain that dwellings were not builded upon
every home lot granted, but in some cases they were sold
and united to other lots, as in the case of John Birdseye at
the south end of the village, who purchased several.

Running through the New Field was a stream called
Nesumpaw's Creek, and a portion of the territory in the
New Field was called Nesumpaws' ; which title was first the
name of an Indian and applied to a tract of land on which
his wigwam stood. The name is spelled at first on the town
records Nesingpaws or Neesingpaws, and later Nesumpaws.

" Claboard Hill " lay at the north of the New Field, a part
of the hill being included in that field. Stony Brook Hill was
afterwards called Old Mill Hill.

The Pequannock field was constructed, probabl}'', about
1655, for it had been sometime established according to a
town vote in January, 166 1. It was on the Pequannock plain
south of Golden Hill, east of Fairfield bounds.

The Calf-pen plain or Upper plain was north of, and,
probably, included a part of, the Golden Hill Reservation, as
the Reservation was laid out in 1659. This plain was estab-
lished for young cattle very early, probably before 1650.
This locality was afterwards and even yet is known as Bull's
head. It was here probably where Richard Butler's swine
were pastured when Nimrod " willfully killed some of them,"
and a law suit followed, or at least was granted to follow, by
the Court.

The following is the list of the owners of fence about
the first common field, the fence being a little over 353 rods
in length, which if it surrounded the entire field inclosed
nearly fifty acres, but if it was a fence direct across the neck
to Fresh Pond it would have inclosed several hundred acres,
or all of Great Neck as well as Little Neck.

This list is without date but must have been recorded
before 165 1, since William Burritt's name is on it and he died
that year.

First Settlers of Stratford. 93;

" A note of every man s fence in the old field with what numbers and the
several rods.

rods. feet. inch. rods. feet. inch.

1 Thomas Skidmore,.-.i2 3 o 22 William Crooker,... 2 10 2

2 John Wells 600 23 John Hurd 43 8 o

3 John Reader, 10 9 o 24 Arthur Bosticke 690

4 Adam Blakeman, 11 14 o 25 John Tomson, 10 9 o

5 Richard Harvey, 9 i 6 26 Robert Cooe o 10 2

6 John Peacock, 5 4 6 27 Thomas Ufford, 12 6 3

7 William Quenby, 4 o o 28 Joseph Hawley, 690

8 Robert Rice, 13 8 o 29 Jeremiah Judson,...ii 14 o

9 William Burritt, 546 30 Joshua Judson

10 Mr. Knell 5 4 6 31 Mr. Seabrook, 4 00 o

11 John Peatite, 10 9 o 32 Henry Gregory, 8 00 o

12 John Brownsmayd,..- 9.1 6 33 Richard Booth. 8 00 o

13 William Wilcoxson,..i2 3 o 34 Mr. Waklin, 2 10 o

14 Richard Butler. 6 9 o 35 Widow Curtis 2 10 2

15 John Peake, 10 9 o 36 Thomas Sherwood,.. 546

16 Thomas Fayrchild,.. . 6 9 o 37 Francis Hall, 18 3 o

17 Joseph Judson, 4 o o 38 William Beardsley,.. 24 6 o

18 Adam Hurd, 4 o o 39 John Curtis, 4 10 o

19 Daniell Titterton, 11 14 o 40 John Birdzie,. 10 g o

20 Philip Groves, 9 i 6 41 Isack Nickoles, 2 10 o"

21 Francis Peacocke, .- -5 4 6

It is probable that this is not a complete list of the
original company. Robert Cooe — number 26 — was Robert,
Junior, and just twenty-three years of age, and hence was not
an original proprietor, yet his father, who was at Wethers-
field at the time, may have been. Thomas Alsop appears
to have been one of the original company, but his name is
not on this list.

The following sketches of the first settlers at Stratford are
much less complete than they would be if written at the
end of the work. It is probable that these men had not the
least surmise or apprehension of the relation they were to
occupy in regard to a free people for many centuries to
come. Each supposed himself to be simply an individual,
seeking the prosperity of himself and family, but time has
revealed that each was a pillar in a great temple of human

94 History of Stratford.

government, for freedom and marvelous success. They
sought, modestly and mainly, a simple home of personal
possession and comforts, and in securing these, laid, in con-
nection with other like plantations which were as independent
republics, the foundations for a government which, after a
little less than two centuries and a half, is, for the elevation of
mankind, the most sublime the sun ever shone upon. It is
often the case that the most perfectly carved marble statue
occupies but an unobtrusive corner in a great temple, so the
work and life of each family in such a plantation may seem
at the time but an insignificant space partially filled, yet in
the ages to follow, that which was the obscure germ will
bloom into the crowning national glory ; even as accom-
plished Presidents of the United States from the back-woods
log cabins. Under such possibilities no family is too obscure
to be noticed in a work like the present ; and even if it
were, the fact of a faithful mention of all, may prove a stim-
ulant to high ambition and success in a most obscure corner ;
and therefore, so far as time and cost will allow, it is the pur-
pose to mention in a historical manner as far as possible,
every person that has had a residence in the good old town
of Stratford. But few books if any in the English language
have had greater influence to incite noble ambition and histori-
cal culture than Plutarch^s Lives, and following in this same
line America has already an unprecedented number of large
volumes of Biographical Dictionaries and Cyclopedias. It is
not then unseemly or aside from good historic order to allow
local history to partake largely of the biographical style.

When the years are counted over, and the generations
numbered who have already passed away since Stratford was
first settled, the time seems long, and the various paths
through which its citizens have journeyed seem wearisome to
think of, but when we bring to mind the courage, endurance,
toil and enjoyments which were the portion of these citizens
we are both sad and delighted. Two hundred and thirty-
four years have passed since the date of the paper which
contains the forty-one names of whom we give, first, a brief
outline of their remarkable lives — remarkable, if for nothing
•else, yet for the circumstances which surrounded them, and

First Settlers of Stratford, 95

for the nation planted by them, and for that which has grown
from their intellectual and religious planting. And what
changes have taken place since those forty-one built their
rude log houses at or near Sandy Hollow Banks, where they
erected their first meeting-house! Some years since while
digging near the site of the old meeting-house a party ex-
humed a skull-bone : that was a representative of one of these
early settlers, which one it matters not; it was one of them ;
— all gone to dust but one bone — and so are they all.

" Two hundred years ago ! how strange
To look back o'er the way
And think of the great, amazing change
From that until th' present time.

Slow rising in the eastern sky,
Our fathers hailed the rising sun ;
But saw not in the western skies
What wonders should be done."

The old meeting-house, after about forty years' service,
disappeared in 1683, but some of the timbers were used as
sills and sleepers in a house now standing a little way west
from the site of the old meeting-house, on the north side of
the street, w^hich is now occupied by Mr. Joseph Savage.
These timbers having been in use about two hundred and
forty years, are interesting as showing the work of human
hands which have slept in the dust two centuries.

A barn now stands on the site of the old meeting-house,
with a stone cellar which was long used as a kind of store or
storage house, and is rather an unseeml}' sentinel to tell
where the first bell that called worshipers together in the
state of Connecticut was suspended to perform its weekly
musical task. There Goodman Peat stood for ten or fifteen
years pulling the rope that caused the sound of the bell to
echo across the placid waters of the old Pootatuck, but now
Housatonic river ; and after him Goodman Pickett performed
the same duties to save Stratford from being in fashion in
coming to the meeting at the beat of the drum.

g6 ' History of Stratford.

1 — Thomas Skidniore was of Cambridge, Mass., in
1642; in 1636 he had been engaged for John Winthrop in his
preparation for planting Saybrook, Conn. He was early in
Stratford, with his son-in-law Edward Higby, probably before
1649, when they had a suit in law tried before the Court at
Hartford. He was in Stratford in 1659, but appears to have
removed not long after to Fairfield, where his descendants
continued many years. His will was dated April 20, 1684,
and proved soon after. Judge Savage says he had a wife
Ellen, but in his will he speaks of his wife Sarah, which may
have been a second. He had two sons and several daughters.

2 — John Wells, son of Gov. Thomas Wells of Wethers-
field, was probably one of the original proprietors of Strat-
ford, or sent there by his father to occupy the lands which he,
the father, owned as one of the proprietors of the plantation,
and he afterwards received considerable land in Stratford
from his father. John Wells was made a freeman in 1645,
perhaps in Stratford, but was here in 1650; was made an
Assistant in 1656 and again in 1658 and 1659. He was a
prominent man while he lived, but died in 1660, or in 1661,
about the same time his father did, a comparatively young
man, not far from thirty-five years of age.

Governor Thoinas Wells, the father of John Wells,
above, was an original proprietor at Hartford and Wethers-
field ; appears there on the records first as the Secretary
Magistrate at the General Court, May i, 1637, when war was
declared against the Pequots. It is uncertain when he came
from England and whether he brought a wife or not, but he
brought three sons and three daughters. He married a sec-
ond wife Elizabeth, widow of Nathaniel Foot of Wethers-
field. In 1654, he was chosen Deputy Governor, and Gov-
ernor Hopkins being in England, he acted as Governor all
the year, and in 1655 he was elected Governor of Connecti-
cut, and then re-elected again in 1658. Governor Wells died
in Wethersfield Jan. 14, 1660.

3 — John Reader, of New Haven, 1643, came to Strat-
ford among the first settlers. His home lot, No. 10, he sold

First Settlers of Stratford. 97

Avith several pieces of land in 1659, to David Mitchell, and
appears to have removed from the town.

4 — Mev. Ada/)n BlakeitiaUf was the son of a private
citizen of Staffoi"dshire, Eng.; born in 1598, and entered
Christ College, Oxford, May 23, 1617, when nineteen years of
age/ where he wrote his own name, Blakeman.' Mather says
of him: "He was a useful preacher of the gospel, first in
Leicestershire, then in Derbyshire, England." Mather also
gives the impression that he was attended to this country by
several families of his parish, but in what year he came over
or by whom accompanied he does not say, Allen, Hinman
and other writers have asserted that he first preached a while
in Scituate, Mass., but they were led into this error by
Deane's History of Scituate, the author of which afterward
acknowledged that he had mistaken the name of " Mr. Black-
man " for that of Rev. Christopher " Blackwell." Cotton
Mather also represents him as having preached in Guilford
before Stratford, but of this no evidence appears, nor could
it have been, since Guilford was settled not a year before
Stratford, and its people had with them their minister, Mr.
Henry Whitfield. In June, 1640, the General Court appointed
him with Mr. Ludlow of Uncoway and William Hopkins of
Cupheag to run the line between these two plantations, and
from this it is concluded he was already settled at Cupheag,

On May 17, 1649, the Court directed : " Concerning Mr.
Blakeman's maintenance, Mr. Ludlowe is directed, both for
what is behind as also for the future, to take care that it be
levied according to the several seasons as is provided by the
order of the country." This indicates that his salary was so
long in arrears as to make it important for the Court to take
action in regard to it. In 165 1, "by the town in public meet-
ing it was agreed that Mr. Blakeman shall have 63 pounds
and pay part of his own rate." His name occurs only a few
times on the existing town records. In 1660, he is named

' Taken largely from MS. of Rev. B. L. Swan.

' Mass. Hist. Coll., vol. viii. 249.

^ His sons James and Benjamin wrote their names Blakemnn and Klackeiuaii.
7

^8 History of Stratford.

as executor of William Beardsley's will, and on April 20,
1665, he is named in a vote inviting Mr. Chauncey to help
him in the ministry for one year. Mr. Blakeman died Mon-
day, Sept. 1665, ce. 6^ years.' His home lot was number 20
on the plan of the village of Stratford.

From Mather's brief notice of him Mr. Blakeman appears
to have been a man of learning, prudence and fervent piety.
The famous Rev. Thomas Hooker said of him : " for the sake
of the sacred and solemn simplicity of the discourse of this
worthy man, if I might have my choice, I would choose to
live and die under Mr. Blakeman's ministry."

Nothing remains of Mr. Blakeman's writings except his
will on the Fairfield probate records and his autograph in the
Connecticut Historical Society's Collections, at the bottom
of a document in Mr. Chauncey's handwriting, and dated in
• the spring of 1665. It is the answer of the Church of Strat-
ford to questions by the General Court of the preceding
year, relating to the matters transacted in the Synod at Bos-
ton in 1662 ; chiefly respecting the membership and rights of
baptized persons.

A paragraph in Mr. Blakeman's will indicates that he
was a member of the Synod from 1646 to 1648 which drew
up the Cambridge platform.

Extracts from Rev. Adam Blakeman s Will.
The will was dated March 16, 1665-66.

" Item. Concerning my books which I intended for m}' son Benjamin, seeing
his thoughts are after another course of life — that his thoughts be not to attend
the work of Christ in the ministry, my wish is that my son Atwater [son-in-law]
make his son Joshua a scholar and fit him for that work. I give unto him all my
Latin books ; but if not they shall be put into my estate and disposed of as my
wife any my overseers shall think fit.

" Item. Because man)^ of God's servants have been falsely accused concern-
ing the judgment of the kingly power of Christ, though I have cause to bewail
my great ignorance and weakness in acting, yet I do hope I shall, through the
strength of Christ to my dying day, adhere to that form of Church discipline
agreed upon by the honored Elders and Brethren, now in print, and to the truth
of God concerning that point left on record by that famous and Reverend Servant
of God, of blessed Memory. Mr. Thomas Hooker, in his elaborate work called

* Savage, vol. ii. 472.

First Settlers of Stratford. 99

The Survey of Church Discipline, to which most in all the churches of Christ
then gathered in this Colony gave their consent as appears in the Rev. Author's
Epistle — so at Milford, New Haven, Guilford, and those in the Bay who could
be come at in that stress of time. And being one who in the name of our church
subscribed that copy, could never (through the Grace of Christ) see cause to
receive any other in judgment, nor fall from those principles so solemnly backed
with Scripture, and arguments which none yet could overturn."

Mr. Blakeman is described by Mr. Mather as having been
attended on his departure for New England with a consid-
erable and " desirable company of the faithful " who would
not be separated from him. He also describes him as a very
" holy man " and as greatly beloved by his people.

Mr. Blakeman's death should have been on Stratford
town records, but is found only on his tombstone, which was
removed to the second grave yard. There is a pretence (in
accordance with repeated orders of the Court) of keeping a
burial record, which begins (p. 49) with John, son of Nicho-
las Knell, January, 165 1, and ends with Elizabeth Porter in
1683, but in these thirty-two years only twenty-four names —
and one or two infants without names — are recorded. Mr.
Blakeman had five sons and one daughter, all except perhaps,
Benjamin, were born in England.

Jl>'s. Jane Blakeman^ widow of the Rev. Adam,
appears to have been sister to Moses Wheeler of Stratford,
for her son John in his will dated in 1662, mentions his
" Uncle Wheeler." Moses Wheeler was born in 1598, and if
she was next younger, and born in 1600, she was two years
younger than her husband, and at her death in 1674, was 74
years of age. Her name appears several times on the Colo-
nial and Town records, in consequence of the misconduct of
her son Deliverance, in whose behalf she was obliged to
intercede more than once with the Colonial authorities, but
who afterwards retrieved himself from his former life, mar-
ried and settled in Stonington about 1685, where he died in
April, 1702. Her will is on the Fairfield Probate records.

John Blakemanf son of the Rev. Adam Blakeman,
married Dorothy, daughter of the Rev. Henry Smith of
Wethersfield about 1653, removed to Fairfield where he died

lOO History of Stratford.

in 1662, leaving- a widow and three sons, Joseph, John and
Ebenezer; from the last of these, who married a Willcoxson,,
descended the Blakeman families of Newtown and Monroe.

The widow Dorothy (Smith) Blakeman appears to have
possessed remarkable charms, either of person, intellect or
heart, for besides passing through a case of litigation in
Court for her hand, she was married four times, twice'after
she was over fifty years of age. Rev. Adam Blakeman, who
survived his son John, in his will — 1665 — says: " I give to my
daughter [Dorothy] Blakeman, if she marry not John Thomas,
and shall take her friends' consent in the matter, or continue
a widow, five pounds," and the General Court, Oct. 10, 1665,
recorded : " The magistrates do order that in case John
Thomas and the widow Blakeman do not issue their differ-
ence by reference now concluded on, that the said Thomas
shall make good his claim to that woman at the next Court
at Fairfield, otherwise the widow shall have liberty to marry."
Upon this John Thomas seems to have abandoned his claims
instanter, for Francis Hall of Stratford, who had been the
attorney for the widow of Rev. Mr. Blakeman in this case
before the Court, became charmed with his opponent and
married her that same month, October 31, 1665, his for-
mer wife having died on July 6th previous. Twenty-two
years afterwards, before the decease of Francis Hall, his son
Isaac Hall entered a claim in Fairfield to recover certain
amount of money which was his own mother's estate at mar-
riage, and guaranteed to her in writing by her husband
Francis Hall, when he sold the estate in England, in 1664, the
apparent object being to keep it from the possession of this
brilliant step-mother. Francis Hall died, apparently, in
Stratford, but this is not certain, in 1690, and his widow
Dorothy still possessing charms too attractive to be confined
to widowhood, married Mark Sension (St. John) of Norwalk,
who died in 1693, alter which she married Dea. Isaac Moore
of Farmington.

Samuel JBlakemanf son of Rev. Adam Blakeman, mar-
ried Elizabeth, daughter of Moses Wheeler in 1660, and died in
1668, leaving several children. His widow married Jacob

First Settlers of Stratford. loi

Walker, a lawyer, in 1670. He was the son of Robert
Walker of Boston and brother of the Rev. Zachariah Walker,
pastor of the Second Congregational Church in Stratford,
and which removed to Woodbury. Samuel Blakeman was
only forty-eight years of age,

JMarif lildkeitiaUf the daughter of the Rev. Adam
Blakeman, was born in 1636, and when fifteen years of age —
in 165 1 — married Joshua Atwater of New Haven, who
seems to have resided for a time in Stratford, purchasing a
considerable estate here, and then removed to Boston where
he died in 1676, leaving several children. After his death she
married the Rev. John Higginson, then of Salem, Mass., but
formerly assistant minister to Rev. Henry Whitfield of Eng-
land and Guilford, Conn.,' whose daughter was his first wife.
Mr. Higginson was an interpreter of the Indian language
while in Connecticut, and gave a valuable paper in the settle-
ment of the claims of Stratford territory in 1659, in which
year he removed to Salem. He died in 1708, and his widow
Mrs. Mary Higginson died March 9, 1709. Her character is
finely set forth by Cotton Mather as illustrative of the noble
women of that age/

5— Richard Harvey, a tailor by trade, came from
Great St. Albans, Hertfordshire, England, in the ship Planter,
in which also came Rev. Mr. Blakeman and William Will-
coxson, in 1635 ; was probably among the first settlers in
Stratford in 1639. He appears to have had no sons but three
daughters. His home lot was number 43. If this was his
first lot, then either he did not come as early as is supposed
above, or did not obtain one until some years after he came.

6 — John JPeacocke, was of New Haven in 1638, Mil-
ford, 1642, and came to Stratford before 1651. He had a
home lot in the southern part of the village on Main street,
and died in 1670. He had four children born before he came
to Stratford, and his only son died while a child and hence
his descendants of the name soon became extinct in the town.

* Thoughts on the Sleep of Death, by Cotton Mather, D.D. 1712. Pp. 4, 5,
6, 7, 8, MS. Rev. B. L. Swan.

I02 History of Stratford.

7 — William Qiienhy was one of the first proprietors
in Stratford territory, his lands being re-entered on the town
books in 1652; a house lot. two pieces of land in the New
field, and three acres on the Neck. These possessions he
sold April i, 1657, to Henry Tomlinson. William Quenby,
probably, was a resident of Stratford only about four years.

8 — Robert Rice was not of the original proprietors,
but came soon after them and was granted land from the
town which was recorded Sept. 16, 1648, which is the earliest
record now on the town books. Hence the plan or plot for
the village was laid before this date, else the lot could not
have been bounded on the highway. The record says : " One
house lot, two acres, more or less, butting south upon the
highway, north upon William Beardsley, west upon Mr.
Knell and east upon John Brownsmayd." He had also
"meadow and upland in the Old Field, 8 acres in the New-
feyld upon Mr. Waklin's Neck," and other pieces elsewhere.
On February 6, 1660, Mr. Rice sold these parcels of land,
including "one house lot, one dwelling house upon it and
barn " to " Thomas Wheeler now of Paugusit," and removed
to New London. A family of the same name have been resi-
dent on the south side of Long Island for many years to the
present time, in the vicinity of Bellville. This dwelling and
lot was afterwards owned by Richard Beach, and then Rev.
Israel Chauncey.

9 — William JSurritt came from England with wife
Elizabeth and settled in Stratford among the first planters
and died in 165 1, the inventory of his estate is dated May 28,
165 1. His home lot was at the south end of the village, west
side of Main street. He left two sons and one daughter, and
the name has been perpetuated with honor in the line of
blacksmiths as well as in other pursuits, in various interior
towns of Connecticut, as well as in the person of the " learned
blacksmith," the late Elihu Burritt of New Britain, Conn.

10 — Nicholas Knells married in 1650, Elizabeth, widow
of Thomas Knowles and daughter of Francis Newman of
New Haven. He was in Stratford probably before his
marriage and appears to have been an original proprietor

First Settlers of Stratford. 103

The record of his land that is preserved is without date, but
was made soon after 1650. Besides his house lot and other
pieces of meadow and upland there was given to him by the
town as a part of his first division •* One Island of meadow
lying in the midst of our harbor, lying for five acres and a
half;" and hence the island has always borne his name —
Knell's Island — and should never he spelled without the K.
Mr. Knell seems to have been an influential man as to char-
acter and public efficiency and work. He died April 2, 1675,
and the town clerk added to the record: "that aged bene-
factor in 3^e county." He had four children — one died an
infant, and the family name continued in the town quite a
number of years, but has long since disappeared.

Elea^er Knoivlea was the son of Mrs. Elizabeth Knell.
His father, Thomas Knowles, was in New Haven in 1645, and
died before 1648, leaving widow Elizabeth and sons Thomas
and Eleazer. The widow married Mr. Knell as above, but
what became of Thomas Knowles, Jr., does not appear ;
probably he died young. Eleazer Knowles settled in Strat-
ford, married Jane Porter and had two sons, Eleazer and
Thomas, and Eleazer removed to Woodbury, Conn., where
his descendants still continue. Thomas Knowles, the first
in New Haven, was one of a compan}^ of seventy who sailed
in a new ship from New Haven for Liverpool in January,
1646, of whom nothing was ever heard.

11 — John Pettit was in Roxbury in 1639, and was at
Stratford in 165 1, removed soon, probably to Stamford and
thence to Newtown, Long Island.

12 — John Sriusmade united with the church at
Charlestown, Mass., in March, 1638, and in October, 1639,
his wife Mary joined also ; but he seems to have removed
that year to Dorchester, Mass., where in 1640 his son John
was born. He settled in Stratford before 1650, and became
prominent in the town. He has been reported as a Ruling
Elder in Stratford church, which is an error arising from the
fact of his name being on the town records as John Brins-
made the elder, that is, not the younger, who was his son.
The only Ruling Elder this church had was Philip Groves.

I04

History of Stratford.

First Inhabitants and their Home Lots^

Home

Lots.

1-2

John Birdse)-,

Thomas Sherwood,

Wid. Elizabeth Beardsley,

42 \

5-8

Jeremiah Judson,

43 \

John Minor, 1667,

44 ]

William Burritt.

Nathaniel Porter,

j John Reader, then

/ David Mitchell,

47 j

John Hurd,

47a (

12-13

Robert Seabrook,

John Peacock,

Henry Wakelyn,

Thomas Uffoot,

Robert Coe,

Samuel Sherman, 1652,

Philip Groves,

Rev. Adam Blakeman,

j John Barlow, then

\ John Hurd,

James Harwood,

Edward Higby,

John Jenner,

Arthur Bostwick,

Jeremiah Judson,

Joshua Judson,

Thomas Fairchild, Sen.,

Richard Booth,

Isaac Nichols, Sen.,

Adam Hurd,

66a

( Francis Nichols, then

66b

1 Caleb Nichols,

1 Thomas Ouenby, then

- Joshua Atwaier, then

Henry Tomlinson,

William Curtis,

Adam Hurd,

j John Beach, 1660,

\ bought of .\. Bryan,

j Richard Miles, then

/ Joseph Hawley,

John Thompson,

38a

Francis Jecockes,

William Read,

William Crooker,

William Judson, then
Josej.h Judson,
First Parsonage Lot
taken from Public Green.
Hugh Griffin, then
John Wheeler,
Richard Harvey,
Francis Hall,

John Blakeman,

Wid. A. Kimberly, 1680,

David Sherman, 1686,

Common,

Land of L Nichols,

Samuel Sherman, Jr., 1665,

Street.

John Beers,

Nathaniel Foot,

Burial Place, 1678,

Daniel Tilterton, Jr.,

Timothy Willcoxson,

Jabez Harger,

John Hull,

John Pickett,

Robert Lane,

John Young,

Thomas Wells,

John Thompson's 2d lot,

John Wells,

Daniel Titterton, Sen.,

John Wilcoxson, Sen.,

John Peake, [Peat],

Moses Wheeler,

Thomas Curtis,

William Wilcoxson,

William Beardsley, ist,

John Brinsmade,

Nicholas Knell,

Robert Rice,

First Meetinghouse,

Thomas UfToot,

Jehiel Preston. 1662,
Second Meetinghouse, 1678,
Third Meetinghouse, 1743,
Burned by lightning, 1785.

' This Map was first constructed by the Rev. B. L. Swan, and has been care-
fully revised by the deeds of the first settlers. It is intended to have a map
double this size in a future part of the book. The numbers have no significance,
except for convenience in referring to the Map. For want of room lots 57, 58, 59,
60, 61, 62 and 63 are not designated on the map.

66 b

IF
17 <.

Cl]

ill
H

30 1

12 13

AS.

STRATFORD

IN 16 6 0.

io6 History of Stratford.

Hence, with the fiction of Mr. Brinsmade's office as Elder
goes also the silly stor^^ of the leather mitten ordination.

John Brinsmade died in 1673 leaving an estate valued at
;^5I9. He had a brother William who entered Harvard
College in 1644, and was settled minister in Marlborough
from 1660 to 1 70 1.'

By a town vote in 1664, it is ascertained that the Indian
wigwams, some of them at least, were located in the south-
west part of what is now Stratford village, west of Main
street, along the path that went to the first mill at the
" Eagle's Nest."° A tract of land there was called Wigwam
Meadow, in consequence of the wigwams having stood there.
It may not have been the only place where wigwams were
located,

13 — William Willcoxson came from England in April,
1635, in the ship Planter, in company with Richard Harvey
and William Beardsley who settled in Stratford. He was
made freeman in Massachusetts in 1636, and came from
Concord, Mass., to Stratford, probably, in 1639, and hence
was one of the first proprietors and a prominent man of the
township. In his will, dated May, 1651, he gave ;^40 to the
church in Concord. He left a widow and five sons, through
whom the descendants of his name are widely scattered in
the nation. The name has become contracted in some
localities to that of Willcox.

" See Allen's Biog. Dictionary.

* " Oct. 10, 1664. In consideration of some meadow being not answerable
to the grant given to Goodman Brinsmade the town at a lawful meeting gave him
a little island below the ferry being south of the ferry, and one acre of land in the
swamp on the right hand of the path as they go from Beardsley Gate to the
meadow called by the place where the wigwams used to be and three, more or
less, on the other side of the path by the swamp side, John Hurd's ground on
the west side of it."

CHAPTER VI.

THE FIRST PLANTERS.

{Continued.)
1639-165 I.

OMMONS or "commoning" was land not
^ijj deeded from the town to any purposes.
Hence in their deeds parties frequently sold
their "commoning" or interest in the undi-
vided lands. Rights of this kind are said to
exist still in the town.

Sequestered land was that given away
or devoted to some specific public purpose,
but when given to settlers, as many of the
home lots were, it was not called seques-
tered land. When the first parsonage lot
was given by the town, which comprised
the two lots 42 and 43 in the map on page
105, it was taken out ot sequestered land,
that is out of the public highway or green, and probably the
highway now called Elm street was proportionally wide as
these lots would make it at that place. Many changes have
occurred in regard to the topography of the place since the
first settlement. A brook once crossing where the railroad
and the Old Mill road intersect and known as Gallows brook,
has disappeared. Tanner's brook, so called from the earliest
settlement, was then a larger stream than now, having one
tannery, probably the oldest, standing on it where Dorman's
blacksmith shop now stands.

The salt meadow and sedge on the west and south of the
creek below New Lane were largely covered with water,
and the point where the shipyard is, being then described as
bounded east, south and west by the river, cove and beach.

lo8 History of Stratford.

Knell's island contained five or six acres. An island just
below the old Washington bridge, once known as Brinsmade's
island, has, the last of it, disappeared within the memory of
persons now living.

The creek setting back from the river into Sandy Hollow
and now almost choked up was two hundred years ago open
and navigable. At the elbow of that creek where the barn
now stands was the center of the first settlement, and the
meeting-house and the burying ground.

14: — Jiichavd Sutler was a proprietor in Stratford and
received his divisions of lands as others, but may not have
resided here until after 1660. He was a juryman in Hartford
in 1643, and in 1648 was made executor of his brother Wil-
liam's estate at Hartford, who seems to have had no heirs
but this brother Richard and two sisters in England. In
165 1 the General Court granted him liberty to prosecute the
Indian Nimrod at Pequannock who had " willfully killed
some of his swyne." In 1659 he is appointed Custom officer
at Stratford and allowed for his duty as collector 2s. for ever}'
butt of wine entered, and I2d. for ever}' anker of liquor, and
in proportion for other casks ; and the Colonial Records
make him one of the grand jury for Hartford in 1660. He
died in Stratford in 1676, having an estate of iJ^350. His
home lot was the southern part of lot number 68 on the dia-
gram of home lots in this book. He was prominent in the
organization of the Second Church from 1666 to 1670.

15 — John Peake, afterward written Peat and then Feet,
is said to have come from Duffield Parish, county of Derby,
England, in the Hopewell, Capt. Bundock, master, in 1635.
He had a wife, Sarah, but whose daughter she was is not cer-
tain, although the Fairfield Brand book' in 1669, styles
Richard Osborn, John Feat's father, which in modern terms
would be father-in-law. He may have been one of the orig-
inal proprietors in Stratford ; had his house lot, No. 6y, on
Front street, now Elm, bordering on Salt Fond, and died in
1678, aged 81 years. His descendants have been and are still
quite numerous, and scattered in the States. He was sexton,

■ Manuscript of the Rev. B. L. Swan.

First Settlers of Stratford. 1 09.

and rang the bell of the first meeting-house some years,
giving up his position in 1660, in consequence of age.

Thomas FalrcJiildf Sen., was among the first settlers
of Stratford, but whether he came here in 1638 or 1639 is not
known. He was a merchant and may have come with his
brother-in-law Thomas Sherwood, and with .William Judson
in 1638, for the purpose, principall}-, of trading with the
Indians, or he may have joined Mr. Blakeman's company at
VVethersfield and come in 1639. Mr. Fairchild's wife was the
daughter of Robert Seabrook, and therefore sister to the
wives of Thomas Sherwood, William Preston, of New
Haven, and Lieut. Thomas Wheeler, of Milford. Mrs. Sher-
wood was much older than her sisters, she having been
married twent3'-one or twenty-two years when she came
here, and probably two of her sisters were married after they
came, about 1640. In what year Mrs. Fairchild died is not
known, but her last child was born in 1653, and Mr. Fairchild
married, 2d, Catharine Craigg, of London, a relative of Mrs.
Elizabeth Whiting, of Hartford, to whom he secured in writ-
ing' ^200 out of his estate, but he died without fulfilling
the agreement, and the matter being brought before the
General Court with the contract in writing, that body
ordered it paid, but that she must support her three children
by Mr. Fairchild. He died, Dec. 14, 1670, and the select-
men reported his inventory at £3,S0- He had four sons
by his first wife and two by his second, and the descendants
are numerous.

The family name is of- long standing in England, the
coat-of-arms indicating that members of it were in the Cru-
sades from (A. D. 1096 to 1400). The name is said to have
been Fairbairn in Scotland, whence the family passed into
England.

* A foot note in the Col. Rec. ii. 199, gives the following facts: "A copy of
thi marriage contract between Thomas Fairchild of Stratford, merchant, and
Katharine Craigg, a sister of Elizabeth Whiting, widow, of London (executed
in England, Dec. 22, 1662, is in Priv. Controv., Vol. I, Doc. 20), in which Mr.
Fairchild binds himself to convey to the said Katharine a life estate in his lands
at Stratford, or, in case of his death before his arrival in New England, to cause
to be paid to the said Katharine the sum of ;i^20o.

no History of Stratford.

Mr. Fairchild was one of the most prominent and
respected men of Stratford. He was appointed by the
General Court, with Thomas Sherwood and the Constables
of Stratford, to draft men in 1654 for the then proclaimed
Narraganset war ; and again on a committee with Philip
Groves, as leather sealer of Fairfield county. In 1654 he was
elected Deputy,- and a number of times after that, and in 1663
he was nominated for an Assistant, and the same for three
successive years, but was not elected. As these nominations
were made at or by the General Court, this shows the
estimation of him by that body. In 1664 he was appointed
a Commissioner, which was a Justice of the Peace, for Strat-
ford and was reappointed afterwards.

Dr. Trumbull's statement, repeated by Mr. J. VV. Barber,
that " Mr. Fairchild was the first gentleman vested with civil
authority,'" appears to be erroneous, since the Colonial Rec-
ords state that William Hopkins was appointed in 1640 Assist-
ant, which must have been the first ; and that Philip Groves
was appointed several successive years from 1654.

It — Lieut, Joseph Jxidson, son of William, was born
in 1619 in England, and died in 1690, aged 71 years. He
became so prominent in the town, and his name so frequent
in the records, that he was supposed by Dr. Trumbull and
others to have been the first of the name in Stratford, but he
came with his father, probably among the first settlers, and
married Sarah, daughter of John Porter of Windsor, about
1644. He was made a freeman in 1658, elected a Deputy
the next year, and was one of the foremost men in the work
and offices of the town about thirty years. He died in 1690,
aged 71 years, having been for quite a number of years the
highest military officer in the town.

William Judsotif born in Yorkshire, England, emigra-
ted to Concord, Mass., in 1634, and settled in Stratford in
1638, the first inhabitant in the place, if here in that year;
and the only one unless Thomas Fairchild or Thomas Sher-
wood, one or both of them, were with him.

^ Trumbull, i. log.

First Settlers of Stratford. 1 1 1

After residing in Stratford some years he became an
owner in the iron works in East Haven and made his resi-
dence in New Haven, where he died July 29, 1662.

His will, recorded in New Haven, was dated 20th of
ninth month, 1661, in which he gives to his son Joseph
twent}^ pounds, and to his sons Joseph and Jeremiah Judson
*' all my part in the iron works (and the privilege I have in
it) which are near Stony river, belonging to New Haven."
He says also : " I give to my wife's daughter, Hannah VVill-
mott, five pounds ; to my wife's daughter, Mercy Willmott,
five pounds ; and to m}' wife's daughter, Elizabeth Willmott,
five pounds ; and the remaining time of service of my servant
Peter Simson 1 give to my wife, and for his encouragement
therein, he being a diligent servant to his dame, I give unto
him five pounds, to be paid him when he hath served out his
time according to his indenture ; and the residue I give unto
my loving and beloved wife Elizabeth Judson."

The inventory of his estate was taken Dec. 15, 1662, and
amounted to ^369, i6s. 6d.

Widow Elizabeth's will was made in January or Febru-
ary, 1685, and the inventory of her estate was taken Nov. 10,
1685, amounting to ^63, 8s. id.

18— Adam Htird^ son of John Hurd, Sen., came with
his father from Windsor, Conn., where they had been among
the first settlers, to Stratford, before or not later than the
spring of 1644. Instead of there being two brothers, it is
quite evident that there were the father and two sons, and
yet it is not certain. A clause in the will of John Thompson,
who was brother to Sarah, the wife of John Hurd (1681),
represents said John Hurd as having become senior by the
death of his father, and if so, his father came to Stratford and
was one of the first settlers there. The town records style
this John brother of Adam, uncle to Adam's son John, and
yet Adam's son John styles him cousin.

Adam Hurd had two house lots, Nos. 31 and 3$, and
other lands, but his name, while prominent on the records,
is not as much so as his supposed brother John's.

19— Daniel Titterton (also spelled Titharton) appears
to have been in Boston in 1643, removed to Stratford before

112 History of Stratford.

1647, for he was Representative from Stratford in 1647 and
also in 1649, 1652 and 1654. He died in 1661, his will being
proved July 6, 1661, in which he mentions three sons, Daniel,
Samuel and Timothy, the last being the only one whose birth
is recorded in Stratford, which was March 25, 165 1. To
these he gave his estate and lands in England, besides some
in New England. He mentions three daughters; one, name
not given, had married John VVilcoxson, and Mary and
Elizabeth, to whom he gave ^^30 each, and besides £\o for
marriage dresses. His wife Jane outlived him, and two sons
may have returned to England to enjoy the estate there, 3^et
Timothy and Samuel are here in the year 1700.

20 — Phili]) Groves was among the first settlers at
Stratford and was early appointed the Ruling Elder, and the
only one, of the Stratford church. He seems to have mar-
ried Ann, the daughter of the Rev. Henry Smith of Wethers-
field, for John Blakeman, Jr., who married another daugh-
ter calls Philip Groves " brother." Mr. Groves was prom-
inent in the town. He was, in 1642, the first Deputy of
this town, and in 1647 a juryman at Hartford, but living at
Stratford ; in 1653 he was appointed with William Beardsley
by the General Court to settle a question of boundaries
between Fairfield and Norwalk ; and the same year was
directed as " Goodman Groves with Goodman Thornton,"
both of Stratford, to assist the Constables in making the draft
of soldiers and provisions for the supposed impending war
against the Dutch at New York; in 1654 he was appointed
by the Court, with others, an Assistant to the Magistrates,"

* General Court, May 1654.

" It is ordered by this Court, that Mr. George Hull and Alexander Knowles
of Fairfield, Philip Groves of Stratford, and Matthew Canifield of Norwalk, shall
be Assistant to such Magistrates as the Court shall at any time send among them,
in the execution of justice, and they hereby empower them to examine mis-
demeanors, to grant out summons, or bind over delinquents to Court, in this
Jurisdiction, for either of them to marry persons, to press horses by warrant
from them as the public welfare of this Comonwealth and their particular Towns
may or shall at any time require ; they giving an account to this Court of the
same when required thereunto." In 1658 this office was further defined and
restricted in the following language ; " to assist Mr. John Wells and Assistant
Camfield in procuring wills and taking inventories, and distributing estates of

First Settlers of Stratford, 1 1 3

which might be sent to execute justice in the town, and
reappointed in 1655 and '56, thus showing that at this date
this town had no regularly elected Magistrate. In 1655 he
was elected Deputy ; in 1656 he was again appointed Assist-
ant; in October, 1656, he, with Robert Rice, was appointed
leather sealer for Stratford, perhaps the first in that office ;
and in May, 1660, he was appointed one of the grand jury for
the Colony. He died in 1675, having been a useful, promi-
nent man in the church, town and state.

21 — Francis JPeacoclxf supposed brother of John Pea-
cock, was a land owner in Stratford, but no further account
of him has been seen.

22 — Williafu Crooher was a land owner in Stratford,
but probably did not reside here, or if he did it was but a
short time. His wife was the daughter of Henry Gregory.
William Crooker, an original proprietor, deeded his land in
Stratford to Henry Wakeley, and probably went to Norwalk,
1654, and thence to Newtown, L. I.

23 — John Hut^df Sen.f the emigrant, among the first
settlers in Windsor, Conn., was in Stratford i» October, 1644,
when he and William Judson were appointed by the General
Court to solicit subscriptions in the town of Stratford for the
maintenance of scholars at Cambridge, and this collection
was " to continue yearly," such being the enterprise of that
da)^ in behalf of education. In May, 1649, he was a chosen
deputy to the General Court, and was appointed by that
Court on a committee with Daniel Titt'erton to view land
desired by the town of Fairfield for an enlargement of their
territory, and in May, 1650, the report being favorable, the
request of Fairfield was allowed, which extended their
bounds to the Saugatuck river. He was deputy also at other
times. Hence it seems that this John must have been an
older man than the John who was married in 1662, and is
credited with being the first of the name at Stratford.

persons that died intestate, and to appoint administrators. . . . This order
respects Stratford, Fairfield and Norwalk." Hence the origin of the Probate
Court. Col. Rec. i. 257, 323.

114 History of Stratford.

A grave-stone ot "John Hurd, 1681, aged 68," taken from
the old burying-ground, is probably his, and hence he was
born in 161 3, seven years before the landing at what we now
know as the old Plymouth Rock. Stratford should be proud
of such a monument as this stone, for, although naught but a
rude field stone, yet what visions of long years gone by are
brought to our minds by it. Two hundred and three years
this plain and often unnoticed stone has borne its unpreten-
tious title — John Hurd, 1681, aged 68 — a fitting monument for
the plain, earnest life he and his associated brethren lived, as
emigrants to the then New World, for the sake of the truth
as they viewed it, in obedience to the Gospel of the Son of
God. Standing by such a stone in the light of two hundred
years is sufficient inspiration to cause every man to defy
religious proscription, bigotry or oppression.

John Hurd was a miller, and in connection with Thomas
Sherwood built the first mill at Old Mill Green, in 1653,
where he himself probably was the first or among the first
residents in that part of the town. He and Thomas Sher-
wood, or one of Sherwood's sons, may have located there
together.

24: — Arthur Sostivickf came from Cheshire, county
of Chester, England, with son John, and probably a wife, and
was an early settler in Stratford, before 1650, and probably in
1639. In 1659 he had a second wife, a widow Ellen Johnson,
who petitioned the General Court in regard to her husband's
lands, and by the order of the Court their united property
was divided equally between them, and in the same year
Arthur gave the most, if not all of his estate, to his son John,
by contract, in which John agrees to maintain his father with
whatever he shall need for his comfort, and among other
things " to find him wines and spirituous liquors, and a horse
when he shall wish to ride forth." The widow, Ellen, in
after years gave a portion of her propert}' to her son Johnson
by a former husband. The reason for dividing the property
appears from the use they made of it, in each bestowing it on
children by their former marriage ; a matter of no surprise.
Arthur was in the list of freemen in 1669, and probably died
within four vears thereafter.

First Settlers of Stratford. 1 1 5

His home lot, 25, indicates him to have been among the
first settlers. His descendants have been numerous in New
Milford as well as in Fairheld county.

,*^J — John Thotnpsotii being a little over twenty-one
years of age, came to New England on a visit of inspection,
and being satisfied with its appearance returned home to
dispose of his property and come here for life. From the
seaport where he landed in England to his home in the inte-
rior was a distance of many miles, which he journeyed on
foot. While passing at early morn a farm-house where the
daughters were bringing the milk, he stopped for some
refreshments, and disclosing the fact that he was from New
England, he found himself among ardent friends of the Puritan
Colonies. Conversation grew earnest and he was urged to
stay. Many questions were asked in regard to the land of the
exiles. " It is a goodly land," said he, " but as yet full of
wild beasts and savage men, but a place where we may wor-
ship God with a true conscience." " Would God 1 were
there," said Mirable, a younger daughter of the farmer, pro-
testing that for love of Christ and to be free from the severe
restrictions then laid upon Puritan worship, she would
gladly endure the hardships and peril in order to attain that
end. Not long before this she had been imprisoned for
attending a conventicle. Thompson's stay was prolonged ;
the interest between him and Mirable increased and they
were engaged to be married. He went home, closed his
business affairs, returned, married her, and they came to
New England. It is thought that his first coming was in the
Elizabeth and Ann in 1635, he being then twenty-two years of
age, yet this is not certain, nor is it certain in what year he
came the second time, nor what year he arrived at Stratford,
although he was there before 1646.

This sketch is taken from the narrative of these events
by the Rev. Nathan Birdseye who died in 1818, aged 103
years, who relates among other things that Mr. Thompson
brought to Stratford some of the first fruit trees introduced
there, and also that he harvested the first wheat raised there.

• From the manuscript of Mr. Curtis Thompson.

ii6 History of Stratford.

The family tradition was that he and his wife, walking in the
field by the Fresh Pond, found that numerous heads of wheat
had already become yellow, whereupon he gathered hand-
fulls of these heads and she rubbed out the wheat until nearly
a peck was secured, which they dried, and probably pounded
in a mortar, and made bread from it, the first made from
wheat grown in the town.

Mr. Thompson died in July or August, 1678 ; his will
being drawn in July and the inventory was made in August,
and he is supposed to have been 65 years of age. His widow,
Mirable, died April 13, i6go. The storv is related that on a
certain day soon after their settlement in Stratford, while
engaged in her house with her face from the door two
Indians rushed in, the one giving a fearful yell, and the other
just then buried his tomahawk in the head of the first, who
fell dead across the table. Mr. and Mrs. Thompson had two
sons and four daughters, whose descendants still abide
within the limits of the old town.

26 — Robert (Joe, Ji*., settled in Stratford before 165 1,
where he purchased of widow Ramble (?) a house lot recorded
in 1652, bounded "east upon the highway, west upon the
swamp, Samuel Sherman on the north and Thomas UfFoot
on the south ; with land in the New Field, at Carman's Neck,
at Nesumpaws and in the great meadows." Previous to this
purchase he held land in the Old Field, and hence was one of
those who kept up the fence around it, and therefore it is
probable that his father was one of the original owners of
Stratford and afterwards gave his share to this son Robert,
else why should he have left Hempstead to settle at Strat-
ford ? He died in 1659, at the age of 32, leaving a widow,
three daughters and one son, among whom his estate, amount-
ing to ^179, i8s. was divided, the daughters receiving ;^35
each. The widow, Susannah Coe, married, 2d, Nicholas
Elsey of New Haven, and upon her son John becoming of
age she, with her husband, made over to him the homestead
of his father, December, 1682.

The following verses were made by the Rev. Abraham
Pierson, pastor at Branford, on the death of Robert Coe :

First Settlers of Stratford. wj

" Rest blessed Coe, upon thy bed of ease ;
I'the quiat grave with the is no desease.
all, all our anguish hath its perod fixt,
Err hens we goe : not any joy but mixt.
Raer grace which maks the life of man the best,
this young man lived to God and now is blest.
Come parallel this saint : now far exceed :
Omit no means that may true goodness breed,
are tr3'als come, bestowed for days of need ?
the Lord his widow bless, and take his seed."

Cooe or Coe, It is an interesting fact that during Queen
Mary's reign, in the year 1555, Roger Cooe, of Suffolk county,
England, the section of the country whence the family came
to America, was burned at the stake, in his extreme old age,
a martyr to the truths of the gospel. His trial is related by
Fox in the Book of Martyrs, where it is represented that he
most decidedly and faithfully testified to the truth and
suffered patiently but firmly for Christ and his teachings.

Robert Cooe^ Sen.f the first in America, who is said to
have been born in Suffolkshire, England, in 1596, sailed from
Ipswich in the ship Frances in 1634 with his wife Anna, who
was born in 1591, and three children. He was made freeman
in Watertown, Mass., in 1634, and tarried there about two
years, but was among the first at Hartford, Conn, (then
called Newtown), where in 1636, at the first Court held there,
he and others presented their certificates of dismission from
the church at Watertown, dated in the March previous, to
form anew in church covenant " on the River of Connecticot."
He and others settled at Wethersfield, where he with others,
after about four years, formed a company and bought of
New Haven colony, the plantation of Ripowams (now Stam-
ford), where they settled in 1641. For this territory they
agreed to pay 100 bushels of corn, and Robert Cooe's pro-
portion was four bushels and one peck. In 1644, Robert
Coe, with other inhabitants, removed with their minister,
Mr. Richard Denton, to Hempstead, L. I., at which date,
Robert, Jr. was seventeen years of age. In 1652, Robert,
Sen., removed to Middlebury, now Newtown, L. I., where
he was made sheriff in 1669, which office he held until 1672.

1 1 8 History of Stratford.

27 — Thomas JJffoot came from England in the ship
Lion in 1632, with William Curtis ; was made freeman in
Boston that same year; may have lived in Roxbury ; came,
probably, in 1639 to Stratford, and ma}^ have been related to
the Curtis family by marriage. His house lot was No. 16,
which still remains in the family, yet his descendants are
scattered far and wide, like those of many other families.
He was a juryman at Hartford as early as 1643 and again in
1644 ; was in Milford in 1646, when he and his wife joined
the church there, and is said to have been there in 1654.
He died in 1660, and as the inventory of his property is at
New Haven, he may have been residing at Milford at his
decease.

28 — Joseph Haivley was in Stratford a proprietor as
early as 1650 and probably a few years earlier. His home lot
was No. 37, which he purchased of Richard Miles in or
before the year 1650. The tradition in Stratford has been
and is that he married Catharine Birdseye, a niece of John
Birdseye, her father residing first in New Haven and then in
Wethersfield. He was prominent in the town and a more
than usually energetic business man. He purchased of the
Indians a large tract of land in Derby, of which that town
allowed him to retain the old Indian planting field, and also
another tract which joined it, including Great Hill. He was
chosen Deputy in 1665 and many times thereafter until near
his decease. He made his will in 1689 and died the next
year. His descendants are numerous and a genealogy of
them is largely collected and nearly ready for publication by
Mr. Elias S. Hawley, of Buffalo, N. Y.

29 — Sevfft, Jeremiah Judson, son of William, born
in England in 162 1, and hence was 16 years of age when he
came to Stratford ; married about 1652, and was a prominent
man in the business transactions of the town. He died in
1700, aged 79.

30 — Joshua Judsorif third son of William Judson, born
in England in 1623, came to Stratford with his father ; mar-
ried Ann Porter of Windsor about 1656, and died in 1661,
aged 38, leaving two sons and a widow, who married John
Hurd, Jr.

First Settlers of Stratford. 1 19

51 — 3/>'. liobert Seabt'ook came to this countrv, prob-
ably with two daughters unmarried, in company with his
son-in-law, Thomas Sherwood, and came to Stratford, proba-
bly, with the same. One daughter married Thomas Fairchild,
perhaps before they came to Stratford. In 165 1 he must have
been about 85 years of age or more. In 1634 his daughter
Alice, who was the wife of Thomas Sherwood, was 47 years
of age. He was also the father of William Preston's wife, of
New Haven, and in his will gave his home lot in Stratford
to his grandsons, Jehiel Preston of New Haven and Thomas
Fairchild, Jr., of Stratford. He is also supposed to have
been the father of Lieut. Thomas Wheeler's wife, who was
married, probably, in this country. .

32 — Henri/ Gregory was in Stratford in 1647, when he
is described in the New Haven Records as having sons
Judah and John and a daughter who was the wife of William
Crooker of Stratford.

The Probate Court, June 19, 1655, orders administration
on Henry Gregorey's estate, giving the eldest son, John,
a double portion and making him the distributer of the estate.
It mentions the children, but names only John. In 1647 the
son John testified that his father was old and that his sight
had failed him. The descendants remained in the town
many years, but were not numerous.

33 — liicliard Boothe, was born in England in 1607,
for in an affidavit, March 15, 1687-8, he describes himself as
about 81 years of age. From what part of England he came,
or in what year is not fully known, nor is there certain evi-
dence of his immediate ancestors, but his name — Richard —
and those of John and Robert, are family names in the line of
the Boothe families of Cheshire, England, an ancient house,
connected also by marriage with several families of distinc-
tion. If, as is not improbable, Richard, of Stratford, were of
that stock, the relationship, it is supposed, would be estab-
lished through Richard, of Coggshill, and Baron in Cheshire,
who was son of Sir William Boothe, by his wife Elizabeth,
daughter of Sir John Warburton, and was born about 1570,
and died in 1628.'°

See Booth Genealogy.

I20 History of Stratford.

Richard Boothe's name and those of his descendants are
prominent on Stratford records. His home lot, 29, indicates
his settlement there among the earliest, but probably not
before his marriage in 1640. He married, ist, Elizabeth, the
sister of Joseph Hawley," for his son Ephraim, in his will
styles Samuel Hawley (son of Joseph) cousin. He was one
of the proprietors of the township and received divisions of
land located in various parts of the town, as did also the
other proprietors. He was probably married twice and had
eight children. The latest mention of him extant is in
March, 1688-9, i*"* his 82d year.

34: — ** Mr, WaMiii,'" Henry Wakelee, was, probably,
an original proprietor of Stratford, and was there before 1650.
His home lot was No. 15, indicating him to have been among
the first settlers. In 1663 he was attorney before the General
Court in behalf of his son James, but the matter was with-
drawn from court.

Ebenezer Wakelee went from Sti-atford to Waterbury,
the part of the town now VVolcott, where his descendants
still reside. The name is now generally spelled Wakelee,
but at first it was generally written Wakelyn, and sometimes
Weaklin and Waklin. The family have not been numerous.

3S — Widow Curtis was Elizabeth Curtis, the mother of
William and John, with whom she came to Stratford, leaving,
apparently, three of her children at Roxbury, Massachusetts.
The reason for the separation of the members of the family
may have been the fact that the father, now deceased, had
acquired a considerable property in land at Roxbur}' which
could not readily be disposed of to advantage, and hence
three stayed to care for it and three came to Stratford.
Widow Curtis's home lot was near or joining Rev. Mr.
Blakeman's. She died in June, 1658, and her estate was
apprised at i^ioo, 3s. 6d. (See sketch of William Curtis.)

36 — Tliomas Sherwood came from England in the
ship Frances from Ipswich, in 1634, aged 48 years, with wife

" Rev. B. L. Swan makes a note as follows: "There is more than a proba-
bility that Jane, wife of Rev. Adam Blakeman, Ann, wife of Philip Groves, and
Miriam, wife of Moses Wheeler, were also sisters of Joseph Havvley.

First Settlers of Stratford. 121

Alice, aged 47 years, and four children. His wife Alice was
the daughter of Robert Seabrook and sister of the wife of
Thomas Fairchild, and hence in all probability these two
families came in each other's company to Stratford.

In June, 1645, he had four suits for slander, in three of
which he was plaintiff and in one defendant, and he gained
the four with costs of the suits and thirty-nine pounds money
as damages. He, in the autumn of the same year, was elected
deputy with William Beardsly, the first sent from Stratford,
to the General Court. In October, 1654, when a draft was
made for an expected war with the Narraganset Indians,
Thomas Sherwood and Thomas Fairchild were appointed
with the constables to " press men and necessaries " for the
war, from Stratford. In this same year, 1654, John Hurd and
Thomas Sherwood received from the town of Stratford forty
acres of land and three pieces of meadow in the New Pas-
ture in consideration of the expenses of building a corn-mill
"to grind the town's corn," at what is now the east end of
■Old Mill Green. The amount of toll they were to have for
grinding was one-sixteenth of a bushel, and the town was to
furnish a correct measure for the purpose of taking the exact
amount. Thomas Sherwood did not remove to Fairfield, as
stated by some, but died in Stratford in 1656, where his death
is recorded.

In 1645, in his suits at law, he is called " Thomas Sher-
wood the elder," in every case, showing that there was then
a Thomas Sherwood the younger. The stor}^ of the three
brothers who came over has been historical in this family,
and is true, for Thomas Sherwood, Jr., Stephen Sherwood
and Matthew Sherwood, sons of Thomas Sherwood, Sen.,
were made freemen in the town of Fairfield in the 3'ear 1664,
where the3' and their descendants were prominent, influen-
tial citizens for two hundred years. The family has been also
considerably numerous in the interior towns and in New
York State.

57 — Francis Mallf a professional lawyer, was of New
Haven, in 1639, and came to Stratford before 1651 ; his dwel-
ling-house seems to have been west of Main street, on what
was afterwards called Lundv's Lane, being the old road

122 History of Stratford.

through the village to Fairfield. He and his family removed
to Fairfield, where he purchased considerable land, and in
1687 a paper was recorded showing that his wife possessed a
house and lands in England when she was married, and
which he had sold and for which he gave the paper signed
by himself securing the amount to her from his prop-
erty." In 1654 he and his wife bought of Thomas Wheeler,
of Fairfield, " all that mesuage or tenement with ye apperte-
nances," or a house and lot, and he may have resided in it
thereafter a part of the time, for his residence was in Strat-
ford years after. His wife Elizabeth died July 6, 1665, and
he being an attorney at law was employed by Mrs. Jane,
widow of Rev. Adam Blakeman, against her daughter-in-law,
then widow Dorothy, and became charmed with his oppo-
nent in the case, and married her Oct. 31, 1665, just twenty-
one days after the suit was tried in court, and six days less
than four months after the decease of his first wife. Francis
Hall died March 5, 1689-90. His widow, Dorothy, married
3d Mark Sension, of Norwalk, who died in 1693, after which
she married 4th, Dea. Isaac Moore, of Farmington.

3S — William IBeardsley came from England in the
ship Planter,'" Capt. Travice commander, he being then 30

" Isaac Hairs Caveat against his father's property.

"Whereas my Honored Father Francis Hall hath formerly sould a house
and land in England which was my mother's at her marriage with him and for
which he hath acknowledged himself Ingaged to make her as good a right in ye
like kind in sum other place by a writing under his hand bearing date ye gth day
of March, 1664, may more fully appear and for ye performance of sd. Ingagement
hee hath nominated all ye housing and land he hass had in the libarties of Fair-
field as in ye sd writing is expressed.

I Isaac Hall as heir to my Honoured Mother Elizabeth Hall deceased enter
Caveate against ye sd housing and lands yi they may be responsible to ye aforesd
Ingagement and for yt time this cavet is to stand according as ye law directs in
such cas.

Dated Fayrfeild This 27 of Septem. 1687."

'^ The following is the list of the vessel in which William IVillcoxson and several other
families came to America who settled in Stratford, and it is given here to show the
method of emigration.

" 2 Aprilis 1635. These under written names are to be transported to New Eng-
land imbarqued in the Planter, Nico : Travice Mr. bound thither the parties have

First Settlers of Stratford.

125.

years of age, his wife Marie 26, his daughter Marie 4, son
John 2, and Joseph 6 months. They embarked in April,
1635, on the same vessel with Richard Harvie and William
Wilcoxson, both of whom settled in Stratford. He was a
mason by trade and it is claimed very emphatically by his
descendants that he was also a Freemason — a remarkable fact,
if true — and that he came from Stratford on the river Avon,
in Warwickshire, the birth-place of William Shakespeare.
This tradition has been confirmed (it is said by good author-
ity), by some of the Beardsley family, residing at Avon,
N. Y., who have visited England and Stratford-on-Avon, and
made a careful search for the facts, and which were satisfac-
factory to this effect. The town of Avon, N. Y., was
named by descendants of William Beardsley of Stratford,
Conn., and thus named in honor of the old river in England.
Some of the members of the x\von, N. Y., family have been
very distinguished, specially Judge Samuel Beardsley, many
years Chief Justice of the State of New York. The Beards-
ley family have claimed the honor of securing to the town of

brought Certificates from the minister
attestations from the justice of the peace

years.

A Mercer, Jo : Tuttell, 39

John Tuttell, - 42

John Lawrence, 17

Wm. Lawrence,- -12

Marie Lawrence, 9

Abegall Tuttell, 6

Symon Tuttell, •- 4

Sarah Tuttell 2

Jo: Tuttell I

Joan Antrobuss, 65

Marie Wrast, 24

Tho : Green 15

) servant to

Nathan Heford, f r t- .. n a

) Jo : Tuttell, 16

Marie Chittwood, 24

Shoemaker, Tho : Olney, 35

Marie Olney 30

Tho: Olney 3

Epenetus Olney,.. i

Husbandman, Geo : Giddins, 20

of St. Albons in Hertfordshire and

according to the Lord's order.

years.

Tho : Savage, a Taylor, ..20

A Taylor, Richard Harvie, 22

Husbandman, Francis Pebody, 21

Lynen Weaver, Wm. Wilcockson, -.34

Margaret Wilcockson, --24

Jo: Willcockson, 2

Ann Harvie, 22

A Mason, Wm. Beardsle)', 30

Marie Beardsley, 26

Marie Beardslie 4

John Beardslie, 2

Joseph Beardslie, 6 mo.

Husbandman, AUin Perlej',. 27

Shoemaker, Willm Felloe, 24

A Taylor, Francis Baker, 24

Tho: Carter, 25] servants to

Michell Williamson, 30 \- George
Elizabeth Morrison, 12 I Giddins."

See Hotten's List of Etnigrants.

124 History of Stratford.

Stratford, Conn., its name, in honor of their old native place
in their mother country, with much credible evidence.

William Beardsley was among the first settlers of Strat-
ford in 1639. He was made freeman in Massachusetts, Dec. 7,
1636, but where he then resided is not known. He was a
substantial, prominent man in the new plantation, but died in
1660 at the early age of 56, leaving property inventoried at

;^333, 15s.

He was elected deputy for Stratford in 1645, with Thomas
Sherwood. In 1649 he was appointed with Mr. Hull, of
Fairfield, to assist Roger Ludlow in securing provisions for
the soldiers then drafted for the war against the Dutch at
New York; and in 165 1 he was propounded for an "Assistant
to join with the magistrates for the execution of justice in the
towns by the sea side."

There was a Thomas Beardsley who died in Stratford in
1667, who is said to have been son of Thomas, of Milford.
He had a home lot near William Burritt.

39 — John Curtis. The Curtis family in Stratford has
been curiously represented as to the first settlers, in which
confusion rather than history has prevailed.

John and William Curtis, with their mother Elizabeth,
appear at Stratford among the first settlers ; the brothers
have each the birth of a child recorded in 1642, but that does
not prove that the children were born in Stratford, since such
records were sometimes transferred from one town to
another; but these brothers probably came here in 1639, or
with those who came in company with Mr. Blakeman, and
the record shows that at that time, 1642, they were of age,
and married, which could not have been the case according
to the account given in the Woodbury History, which makes
William at that time not more than ten years of age. The
Curtises of Scituate and Roxbur3% Mass., were different fam-
ilies, and remained with their descendants in and about each
of those places except those who came to Stratford.

William Curtis, who came in the ship Lion in 1632, was
the settler at Roxbury and father of William and John who
settled in Stratford, and he died at Roxbury near the end of
•the year 1634. He came to America, leaving his family for

First Settlers of Stratford. 125

the time, as did many others, in England, and in the spring-
of 1634 they came and joined him at Roxbury, where his
name appears frequently in the records as a land holder, and
he died about eight months after the)' came. His children
were William, Thomas, Mary, John and Philip ; William and
John with their mother Elizabeth, came to Stratford, the
others appear to have remained at Roxbury, where are still
their descendants.

Thomas Uffoot came in the ship Lion in 1632, with William
Curtis, Sen., and he and the Curtises probably came in com-
pany to Stratford.

John Curtis was made freeman in 1658 ; had his home,
perhaps, with his mother, bought the shares of the other
heirs after her death, and gave it to his son Israel in 1660.
John and William Curtis had each a home lot at No. 69 (on
diagram). William had the east half, John the west. This
was before 1660.

John Curtis was prominent as a citizen and in the work
of settling the township, but he was not as much in public
life as his brother William.

William Curtis, son of William, came to Stratford
with his widowed mother Elizabeth, and his brother John
Curtis, probably in the spring of the year, 1640, where he
died in 1702, full of years and honors.

Much effort has been made to ascertain the relation of
several families of this name at Roxbury, Mass., and Strat-
ford, Conn., with little success, except by the Rev. B. L.
Swan, who succeeded finely.

A paper has come to light since the commencement of
this book, which has been preserved with great care about
200 years, which makes the matter quite definite. This
paper reads: " William Curtis came to this land in the year
1632, and soon after joined the church; he brought four chil-
dren with him — Thomas, Mary, John and Philip, and his
eldest son William came the year before ; he was a hopeful
scholar, but God took him in the end of the year 1634.
Sarah Curtis, wife of William Curtis." This is all there was
on the original paper except a description of the coat-of-arms,
a painted copy of which has been preserved with the paper,

126 History of Stratford.

both being the property of the late Samuel Curtis Trubee, of
Fairfield, and which had been preserved very carefully by his
mother Elizabeth (Curtis) Trubee, who was born in Stratford
Dec. 25, 1788.

This paper was evidently written by some member of
the family at Stratford about the year 1700, or earlier, for it
must have been William Curtis the father who died at Rox-
bury in 1634, since the five children of that family were then
born, and the William Curtis of Stratford had a family of
nine children, all born after 1641, and also since Elizabeth
Curtis, widow, and mother of William and John, came to
Stratford with the first settlers, probably, in 1639, and died
there. And also the Sarah Curtis mentioned on the old
paper was the second wife of the second William Curtis, or
the one who came to Stratford.

Further: The high standing of William Curtis of Strat-
fort as a military officer corresponds to the description
given : " he was a hopeful scholar;" for education above the
ordinary ability to read and write was greatly appreciated
and honored in those days. His standing in this respect,
having been Sergeant as early as 1650, as well as the militar}'
affairs of Stratford, are somewhat revealed in the following
extracts and facts : "June, 1672. This Court confirms Will-
iam Curtis, Captain, and Joseph Judson, Lieutenant, and
Stephen Burritt, Ensign, of the Train Band of Stratford."

At the same time the General Court declared that "until
further order be taken, Capt. Nathan Gold [of Fairfield] shall
be deemed chief military officer of the county of Fairfield,
and Capt. William Curtis, his second."

In August, 1672, Capt. William Curtis was appointed
by the General Court one of six commissioners, with the
Governor, Deputy Governor and Assistants, as a war council
against the Dutch at New York, " to act as the Grand
Committee of the Colony in establishing and commissionating
militar}' officers, in pressing men, horses, ships, barques or
other vessels, arms, ammunition, provision, carriages or
whatever they judge needful for our defence, and to manage,
order and dispose of the militia of the Colon)^ in the best
way and manner they can for our defence and safet}^"

First Settlers of Stratford. \ 27

In the next November, Captain Curtis was appointed
Captain " for such forces as shall be sent from Fairfield
County " against the Dutch at New York, and in 1675 his
commission in the same position was renewed ; this showing
that he stood the highest in the county as a military officer,
except field officers.

While he was thus engaged in military affairs he was for
some years regularly elected Deputy to the General Court,
his election being repeated, sometimes after intervals, sixteen
times.

His home lot was No. 34, but he owned a part of No. 69,
and his name does not occur on the list of fence about the
old field, probably because his cultivated land was in or
nearer the village or in the new field. Several of these
planters had land to cultivate, at first, from two to six acres,
near or adjoining their home lots.

40 — John Jiirtlseye came to Stratford among the
earliest settlers. According to his age at death, he was
born in 1616, since he died in 1690, aged 74 years. The Rev.
Samuel Peters, who married into the family, says he came
from Reading in Berkshire, England, emigrated to America
in 1636; came to New Haven, thence to Milford in 1639, and
thence to Stratford. Mr. Peters says, also, he came to New
Haven with his two sons, and one of them settled in Middle-
town and the other in Stratford. This is an error, for
Middletown was not commenced as a settlement until 1650,
and this John Birdseye's children were not born when he
came to America. If this tradition is true, it must have been
another John Birdseyc, father of this John, which may have
been the case. The tradition still in the family is that two
brothers came to New Haven, one settled in Wethersfield,
who had a family of daughters, and that Joseph Hawley, the
first of the name at Stratford, married Catharine, one of
those daughters; and that John came to Milford and thence
to Stratford, but the precise year is not known. The births
of his only children are recorded in Stratford, John in 1641
and Joanna in 1642, but their baptisms are recorded in
Milford ; and he and his wife Phillis (Phillipa) were dis-
missed from the Milford church to Stratford church in 1649.

1 28 History of Stratford.

It seems very improbable that he would, under the circum-
stances and customs of those days, remain at Stratford eight
years and continue his membership at Milford, and therefore
it is more probable Ihat he remained at Milford until 1649
and had his children's births recorded in Stratford after he
came here. The time of her death is not known, but he
married a second wife, Alice, widow of Robert Tomlinson,
about 1688. An agreement between himself and her in 1688
respecting property is on the probate records.

Both of his children survived him. Joanna married
Timothy, son of William Willcoxson ; the latter in his will
in 165 1 refers to his " brother Birdseye," whence it may be
inferred that either William Willcoxson's wife was Birdseye's
sister or Birdseye's wife was Phillis Willcoxson, and in either
case John Birdseye's children married their cousins, for John
Birdseye, Jr., married Phebe, daughter of William Willcoxson.

John Birdseye is said to have been one of the first dea-
cons in the Congregational Church of Stratford. His
descendants have been considerably numerous, widely scat-
tered and of honorable position and standing as citizens.
Victory Birdseye of Onondaga county, N. Y., son of the
Rev. Nathan Birdseye, became a member of the Congress
of the United States.

John Birdseye seems to have married Phillipa, daughter
of Rev. Henry Smith of Wethersfield, for John Blakeman,
Jr., who married Dorothy, daughter of Rev. Henry Smith,
called Birdseye " brother." It is true that the term " broth-
er " was used in those times familiarly in public documents,
among the members of the church, to designate, simply, that
relation, but it is not certain that it was used in this sense in
wills, where definite terms are supposed to have been used.

4il — Isaac 'NicliolSf son of Francis, one of the first com-
pany of settlers in Stratford, came from England with his father
and became a prominent citizen in the town, where he died in
1695. He was a deputy to the General Court three sessions in
1662 and 1665. He was a farmer but seems to have dealt some-
what in merchandise. In his will he says : " Concerning my In-
dian servant George, I give him to my wife during her natural
life." His descendants are scattered far and wide in the land ot

First Settlers of Stratford. 129'

freedom and prosperity. Of the brothers Caleb and John a
notice will be made further on in this book.

Francis NicholH from Enoland was in Stratford among
the very first settlers. The General Court, on October
10, 1639, directed " Mr. Governor and Mr. Wells to con-
fer with the planters at Pequannocke [Stratford], to give
them the oath of Fidelity, make such free as they see fit,
order them to send one or two deputies to the General Courts
in September and April, and for deciding of differences and
controversies under 40 s. among them, to propound to them
and give them power to choose 7 men from among them-
selves, with liberty of appeal to the Court here ; as also to
assign Sergeant NichoUs for the present to train the men and
exercise them in military discipline." This establishes the
fact that Francis Nichols was in Stratford with several other
families in 1639, and that he was the first military officer in
the plantation, which was a matter of considerable distinction
in those days, and it indicates that he had become somewhat
acquainted with military matters before coming to this
country.

He died in 1650 and Ihe inventory of his estate in 1655,
on Stratford records, was £2^, 9s. His sons were Isaac,
Caleb and John, all born in England. His widow Anne was
the daughter of Barnabas Wines of Southold, L. I., and she
married, 2d, John Elton of that place, and found a home on
one of the most healthy islands, with the most charming
climate in the world.

Thomas Alsop^ born in 161 5, came to America in the
Elizabeth and Ann in 1635, aged 20 years, and evidently was
one of the first settlers in Stratford, where he died 1650- i,
leaving property which went to Joseph Alsop of New Haven,
probably a brother. Judge Savage thinks that John Alsop,
who is found on a tax-list with Edward Jackson and Thomas
Child, who came to New England, and William Shakespeare,
at Stratford on the river Avon, England, in 1598, was the
father of Thomas Alsop of Stratford, and from this supposi-
tion it has been claimed that the new plantation in Connecti-
cut received the name oi Stratford.
9

130 History of Stratford.

William Sophins was a resident in Stratford in 1640,
and in 1641-2 was one of the magistrates at the General
Court; then he disappears and nothing further is known of
him.

Thomas Thoi'nton was a business man early at Wind-
sor and served on a jury at Hartford in 1643. In 1646 there
was a motion before the General Court to excuse him and
his men from training because " by having his men suddenly
taken off" from work '* he might sustain great loss ;" but we
have no information what his trade or business was. In the
spring of 165 1 he seems to have been at Stratford and become
acquainted with business matters in Fairfield, for he
" affirmed in court that it was reported there were a hundred
beeves killed in Fairfield last year." He was on a committee
for Stratford in 1653, with Goodman Groves to draft soldiers.
Lands were granted to him by the town in September, 165 1.

Hohert Rose was of Wethersfield in 1639. He came
from Ipswich, county Suffolk, in the ship Frances in 1634,
aged 40, with wife Margery, aged 40; children, John, 15;
Elizabeth, 13; Mary, 11; Samuel, 9; Sarah, 7; Daniel, 3;
and Dorcas, 2. He was residing in Wethersfield in 1639, and
was constable in 1640; representative in 1641, '42 and '43 ;
removed, says Savage, before 1648 to Stratford, which is
probable. He, and not his son Robert, purchased a home
lot and several pieces of land in Stratford, April 3, 1668, of
the town, which had been John Young's. Nov. 3, 1685,
Robert Rose, of Stratford, gives his son-in-law Moses John-
son, of Woodbury, " fifty or sixty acres of land granted to me
b}' the General Court for gratification for services done by
me, the said Rose, in the Pequot wars." It is probable that
his son, Robert Rose, settled at East Hampton, L. I., in 1650.

John Jentter had land recorded to him in 1652, in
Stratford ; a home lot, land in the Old field. New field,
Nesumpaws and in the great meadow. Having land in the
Old field it is a little surprising that his name does not appear
among those who made the fence around that field. He soon
disappeared from Stratford, but his name is found with
others on a petition to the General Court from Cromwell

First Settlers of Stratford. 1 31

Bay, now Setauket, L. 1., in 1659, asking to be admitted into
Connecticut colon3^

Jloses Wheeler was at New Haven and had land pro-
portioned to him in the first division that was made in that
town, which occurred between the years 1641 and 1643. At
that time his family consisted of two persons, which must
have been himself and wife, and his estate was fift3^-eight
pounds.

There is nothing definite as to when he came to America
or from what part of England, but the Wheeler family have
been residents several hundred years in the county of Kent,
southeast of and adjoining to London, and it would seem
probable that he came with the New Haven Company which
came from London ; yet, if his sister married the Rev. Adam
Blakeman, as believed, it would indicate that possibly he may
have come from another county than that of Kent.

In May, 1648, Moses Wheeler was an inhabitant of Strat-
ford, for at that time Roger Ludlow presented to the General
Court a request that Mr, Wheeler should be allowed to keep
a ferry at Stratford, and the decision of the matter being
referred to the next Fairfield Court, the request was granted.
It appears from these records that the ferry was then already
established, and the application to the court was to secure
the privilege as legal property.

What the conditions for the privilege of the ferry were
is not stated, but seventeen years later, Nov. 21, 1670, the
town saw fit to lease to " Moses Wheeler, ship carpenter, the
ferry with thirty or forty acres of upland and six of meadow
joining to the ferry for twenty-one 3'ears, without tax or rate
except six pence per annum during said lease." The inhabit-
ants were to be " ferried over for one half-penny per person,
two pence per horse or beast." If he should leave the ferr}'-
at the end of twenty-one years, the town agreed to pay him
for his improvements and take the property. By the will of
Moses Wheeler, Jr., proved Jan. 23, 1724-5, it is ascertained
that he received the ferry from his father and left it to his
own son Elnathan Wheeler, and therefore the ferry contin-
ued in the same family, at least three generations, or nearly
one hundred years.

132 History of Stratford.

It is probable that Moses Wheeler was the first ship
carpenter in Stratford, and that he continued to work at his
trade, then much needed, and to cultivate his forty-six aCres
or more of land, while he attended the duties of the ferry
many years. He died in 1698; having been born in 1598,
therefore may have been the first centenarian white man in
New England.

Jfr. SaTnuel Sherman purchased in Stratford of
Caleb Nichols a house and lot and other land in about 1650,
and became one of the substantial, prominent men of the
town. The family is traced back into England by the Rev.
Henry Beers Sherman, of Esopus, N. Y., and the Rev.
David Sherman, D.D.,' of Hopkinton, Mass., in regular suc-
cession, to the beginning of the sixteenth century, with inter-
esting notes of the family a number of generations anterior to
that.

"The family is of German extraction. In the fatherland
the name Sherman, Schurman, Schearmaun, Scherman often
occurs, and was doubtless transferred, many centuries ago, to
the vicinity of London by the Saxon emigration, where it still
remains. From this metropolitan stock a scion was trans-
planted to Dedham, county of Essex, England, which long
flourished and sent forth other shoots. The name is derived
from the original occupation of the family, for they were
cloth dressers, or shearers of cloth. The family at Dedham
retained the same occupation and also the same coat-of-arms
as worn by those in and about London.

" There are found in New England two distinct families,
one of them descending from William Sherman, who came to
Plymouth with the Pilgrims about 1630, and settled at
Marshfield, where some of his descendants still remain, but of
his place of birth or immediate ancestry nothing is known.

" The other is the Dedham family, a branch of which
emigrated to America and settled in the vicinity of Boston.
Of this family, the first in the line, and perhaps the one who
emigrated to Dedham, was Henry Sherman, of whom but
few dates or facts are known, except that he bore the Suffolk

* See New England Genealogical Register for January and May, 1870.

First Settlers of Stratford. 133

coat-of-arms and died in 1589. His son Henr}' was the father
of Edmund, the first emigrant of this line to America. He
was born in Dedham, and married in England, in 161 1, Judith
Angier, and came to America about 1632, and settled in
VVatertown, Mass., whence they removed to VVethersfield,
Conn,, and thence to New Haven, where he died."

Samuel Sherman, born in Dedham, England, in 1618, son
of the above Edward, came to this country with his father
and was in Wethersfield as early as 1637, for in May of that
3^ear he was a member of the Committee which acted as the
Court when war was declared against the Fequots, before the
General Court was organized. The position he thus occu-
pied was that afterwards denominated an assistant, and now a
senator; the title he bore was that of " Mr." and this when,
according to the dates given, he was only nineteen years of
age ; but he was probably twenty-one, and his being elected
or appointed to that office even at twenty-one, assures that
he possessed superior education, or he would not have been
so selected from a score of others capable and older, his own
father among the number.

Mr. Samuel Sherman was elected an assistant three suc-
cessive years from 1662, and he served the State in this or
some other capacity so profitably that the court granted him
"a farm of two hundred and fifty acres of land upon New
Haven river whereof fifty acres may be meadow, so it be out
of the bounds of the town."

His next service was upon an important war committee
consisting of Mr. Gould, Mr. Camfield, Ens. Judson, Mr.
Lawes, Lt. Olmstead or any three of them, for, war between
England and the Dutch States general having been declared
Feb. 22, 1665, and the news of it having reached the colonies
in June of that year with the information that DeRuyter, the
Dutch admiral, with a considerable force was to visit New
York City, the coast on Long Island Sound was divided into
three districts for self-defence. But the Dutch admiral did
not come. This news of war dangers produced great excite-
ment among the people on the coast.

Liberty was granted by the General Court May 9, 1672, to
'"Mr. Samuel Sherman, Lt. \Vm. Curtis, Ens. Joseph Judson

134 History of Stratford.

and John Minor, themselves and their associates, to erect a,
plantation at Pomperaug," which grant eventuated in the set-
tlement of Woodbury.

Mr. Sherman was thus a valuable as well as a prominent
member of the early township of Stratford. He died in the
year 1700.

Henry Tonilinson was in Milford as early as 1652 ;
removed to Stratford in the autumn of 1656, where, April i,
1657, he purchased of Joshua Atwater a house and lot and
several pieces of land and became a permanent inhabitant.
Before coming to Stratford, in June, 1656, the town of Mil-
ford brought a complaint against him and he against it, as to
the ownership of a house, both claiming it, as an ordinar)- or
tavern which he had conducted one or more years as a town
officer, and the town charged him with " breaking the juris-
diction order in selling strong water at a greater price than
is allowed, and wine and dyet at (as is conceived) immoderate
prices, whereby the town suffers, and some have said they
never came at the like place for dearness." Soon after this
Mr. Tomlinson removed to Stratford, but the suit was
brought in court several times until the spring of 1659, when
it was again put over until the next October, and that is the
last that is recorded concerning it except as it came up in
another form. The Governor of New Haven had rendered a
decision of small penalty against Mr. Tomlinson, and he in
turn arrested the governor, by legal process, as having done
him a personal injury. This arrest of the chief magistrate of
the colony created much excitement, and after two hearings
in court Mr. Tomlinson was fined iJ^ioo, and required to give
bonds in that sum with the assurance that the court would
"call for the i^ioo when it should see cause," and there the
matter stands to the present time, so far as the records show.
In Milford he was not a member of the church and hence not
a voter, and this may have had something to do with the
lawsuit.

Henry Tomlinson came from England with a wife, two
sons, Jonas and Abraham, and several daughters. His son
Abraham died on the passage hither, and his son Agur was
born in Stratford. The ti"adition is that his nephew came

First Settlers of Stratford. 135

with him to this country, and there was a Robert Tomlinson
in Milford whose wife was dismissed from the church in Mil-
ford to Stratford Church in 1653, and who died in Stratford,
and his widow married John Birdsey, Sen., about 1688.

William Tomlinson was accepted an inhabitant in Derby
in December, 1677, who is supposed, in consequence of
several favoring facts, to have been the son of this Robert
of Milford and Stratford.

Henry Tomlinson was one of the most active business
men of Stratford and known as such in the Colony. He
was not a military man ; he had no title to his name, but
was a farmer, buying, selling and cultivating land. In 1668
he and Joseph Hawley — another land buyer — purchased a
large tract of land in Derb}^ — " all that tract of land lying
upon the Great Neck near unto Pawgassett, .... for
the consideration of ;^6. los.,'" and in 1671 he and others by
permission of the General Court purchased a large tract of
land of the Indians of Weantinock — New Milford.

His will was dated in the winter of 1680-81 and proved
April 28, 1681, and his inventory amounted to ;^5i8 i6s. 2d.,
besides his tract of land at Weantinock, which he gave to his
"two sons," Jonas and Agur.

The old Bible, printed in 1599, which Henry Tomlinson
brought to this country, is still preserved, although it has
removed west to the state of Michigan. The coat-of-arms
in a painting of the family has been preserved many years
through the care of Governor Gideon Tomlinson and his
descendants.

The descendants of Henry Tomlinson have been promi-
nent in business enterprises and professions in many parts
of the country.

Mugh Gi'ijfin became an inhabitant probably about
1654, and purchased of the town a house and lot.

John Ferf/iisoii purchased land in Stratford of James
Blakeman, Nov. 28, 1660, and appears to have been a resident,
and in October, 1664, sold his estate to Abraham Wakeman
and removed from the town.

' Col. llec, ii. 303,

136 History of Stratford.

Thomas Beardsley purchased in Stratford, Feb. 7,
1661, a house and lot of land amounting to ten acres or
more, became an inhabitant, and died Feb. 13, 1688. How
he was related to the other Beardsley family, if at all, has
not been ascertained.

John Heachf son of Richard of New Haven (sa3's Sav-
age), perhaps a brother, came to Stratford and bought his
first land here May 21, 1660, of Ens. Bryan of Milford, "one
house lot 2 acres." He had then a wife and four children.

In January, 167 1, he was made an auctioneer by the
following vote : "John Beach was chosen crier for the town,
and to be allowed* four pence for every thing he cries ; that
is to say for all sorts of cattle and all other things of smaller
value, two years."

Benjamin Seachf son of Richard of New Haven, came
to wStratford a single man.

Thomas Quenhy may have been a son of William
Quenby, had a home lot and was a land owner in Stratford
about 1660, and removed to West Chester, N. Y., about 1664.

Francis Jacoches had a home lot in Stratford about
1660, but disappeared soon. He may have been the father
of William and Joshua, who were in Hempstead, L. I., in
1682. His descendants are said to be still in New Haven,

Conn.

Jonas Halstead was among the early dwellers of Strat-
ford, went to Jamaica, L. I., before 1660.

JEdward HUjhee had a home lot in Stratford, but
removed to Jamaica, L. 1., before 1660.

John Harlow had a home lot in Stratford about 1660
and removed to Fairfield.

CHAPTER VII.

CONFLICTS, WARS, WITCHCRAFT.

ONCERNING the toil, endurances and
hope through which the settlers of Strat-
ford, as well as those of neighboring plan-
tations, passed the first stage of their pro-
gress, it is difficult to write without com-
miseration, gloom and indignation. Com-
miseration for them as separated from their
native land and kindred, the greatness of their
privations and toils, and the enmity with
which they were watched by the natives
around them ; gloom in view of their early
dead, and general want of knowledge in
order to adapt themselves to the untried
conditions of life to which they were sub-
ject ; and of indignation at the outrage of
ecclesiastical governments which drove
them to renounce their manhood as to conscience and
reason, or flee from their native land into an untried, unset-
tled and uncivilized wilderness; and finally, indignation that
these commonly intelligent and Christianized men should
have brought with them so much of the superstition, bigotry
and stupid foolishness of the old country as they did, by
which they were lead to treat the natives of the land in a
barbarous manner, and to hang poor innocent old women as
supposed witches. However execrable some of their beliefs
and practices were, they brought them all with them from
Old England with the exception of a very few items taken up
anew from the law of Moses. They came here with the
same minds and principles with which they and their neigh-
bors were possessed in England, with one grand and noble ex-

and

138 History of Stratford.

ception, which was that they had scarcely put their feet upon
American soil before a great light of freedom shone around
them and at once transformed them into independent repub-
lics; the like of which had never yet been conceived by
mortal man. Suddenly, as the comet dashes into sight from its
trackless journey, the new earth spread its wide and fertile
domain to a coming nation of liberated and enlightened free-
men ; and such was the amazement to the awakened mind
that they scarcely dreamed to what end it would come, only
that they were defiant to tyrants, and pledged to the
improvement of the grand opportunities spread before them
until '^further light should coined

With such a comprehensive view of practical life, destiny
spread before them the grand achievements which they in
due time organized and established, and into the glory of
which we have already in part, entered. Hence, in view of
the reward we now possess as to a largely enlightened nation,
it is unfitting that we should cast a disparaging reflection
upon those through whom we possess so advantageous an
inheritance. No greater eulogy can be set forth concerning
any one than the actualities of life, for anything beyond this
dwindles into insignificance. Therefore we proceed to
gather the items now scattered far and wide in hundreds of
family Bibles, stacks of town records and personal manu-
scripts, and place them in book form for the perusal of
thousands of interested readers, and as the starting point for
future and further research and collections.

How, then, did these wilderness planters make such
steady and marvelous progress under the new, varied and
difficult, as well as discouraging circumstances around them,
during the first twenty years of their Stratford plantation?

Wars and Rumors of Wars.

In a preceding chapter, pages 55-60, the effects upon
Stratford and neighboring towns of the Indian war with the
Dutch at New York, which began in 1643, has been carefully
narrated, and only a few things remain to be written. The
settlers did not come to this country prepared for war, but
were almost wholly without implements and materials for

Wars and Rumors of Wars. 139

such a conflict. Neither had they the means or necessary
appliances for making war materials to any considerable
extent, and therefore they were to a great degree defenceless.
One of the first things they did in Stratford, after fitting up
the few guns they possessed, was, according to tradition, the
fortifying the village against the Indians, by building
palisades. This was done by setting into the ground wide
slab-like stakes or split logs and posts close together, from
eight to twelve feet high, making a palisade fence, from the
Housatonic river across the north part of what was soon
afterwards known as Watch-house Hill, and still later
Academy Hill, to the swamp on the west side of the village,
and then southward as far as was necessary to secure the
settlers from a sudden attack by the Indians. In later years
these palisades were renewed and the place further secured
as directed by the General Court and attended to by a Strat-
ford town vote.

In providing for the safety of the community, soldiers
were drafted and placed on watch during the nights, and at
particularly^ alarming times, during the day, and for the con-
venience of these soldiers a house was built on the hill, and
hence the name Watch-house Hill. From this hill, when the
trees were not half or a quarter as numerous as now, the
whole village and far beyond it, could be overlooked and a
careful watch kept by a few men.

It is possible that as early as 1643 the palisades were
built so as to inclose a small territory at the mouth of the
creek where the first meeting-house stood, for the hill a little
to the east was called Guard Hill because of the soldiers
keeping guard there at a very early period. From this hill, in
1643, a careful watch could have been kept over a few families
— perhaps twenty or tv.^enty-five — who were then dwelling
there.

In 1649, new difficulties arose with Indians about Stam-
ford and adjoining plantations. Forty-five soldiers were
ordered by the General Court to be drafted and placed under
Roger Ludlow, with William Hull and William Beardsley to
assist, but the war passed off without bloodshed, although
with a great fright to the people.

140 History of Stratford.

Added to this at this time was the great Revolution in
England which resulted in the execution of Charles I. and
the military dictatorship of Cromwell, which in effect threw
the Colonies upon their own resources of sustenance and
military defence, and furthered their ideas of personal and
Colonial freedom, although they had not the least thought of
independency from the mother country. Stratford above all
the plantations was loyal although some of its citizens were
among the most pronounced opponents to the political
claim that none but church members should be freemen so
far as to be allowed to vote ; for, in 1663, after the restoration
of Charles II. to the throne and the officers were sent to this
colony to arrest Messrs. Goff and VVhalley, the Regicides,
Stratford Constables obeyed the order of search, while other
towns refused, and presented a bill to the General Court for
£6. 17^ i"^, which the Court refused to allow,' and probably
the bill is still unpaid.

In the year 1652 war broke out between England and
Holland, and it at once was expected that the conflict would
be extended to America and prosecuted between the Dutch
possessions at New Amsterdam, afterwards New York, and
the New England Colonies. Trumbull says: "The com-
mencement of hostilities this year between England and
Holland, the perfidious management of the Dutch Governor,
with apprehensions of the rising of the Indians, spread a
general alarm through the Colony."^

In May, 1653, "the Commissioners of the United Col-
onies, who were at this time in session at Boston, having
'considered what number of soldiers might be requisite if
God call the Colonies to make war against the Dutch, con-
cluded that five hundred for the first expedition shall be
the number out of the four jurisdictions, and apportioned
this number to the several Colonies as follows: to Massa-
chusetts, 333; to Plymouth, 60; to Connecticut, 65; to New
Haven, 42."^ At this time also England sent over "a par-
cel of arms and ammunition, as a supply, and for the con-
venience of the United Colonies, and ordered "that the

' Col. Rec. i. 393. * Trumbull, i. 201. ^ Col. Rec, i. 241.

Wars and Rumors of Wars. 141

same should be divided as follows: to the Massachusetts,
^^309, I7^ 8^; to Plymouth, ^^57, 14', 10"; to Connecticut,
£60, 6', lo*^; and to New Haven, £^0, 4^" the division being
made according to tax lists of the several Colonies.

The part which Connecticut was to bear in this cam-
paign is indicated by the record of the General Court, May
21, 1653. "The Court having received orders from the
Commissioners that there are to be sixty-five men to be
prepared forthwith, to be at a day's warning with provisions
suitable ; the Court raiseth the men out of the several towns
of this Jurisdiction as followeth, who are to be forthwith
impressed to be at a day's warning or call, as also that suita-
ble provisions and ammunition shall be forthwith prepared : —

Windsor, 12 Norwack, i Farmington, 5

Pequett, 5 Hartford, 15 Seabrook, 5

Mattebezek, i Wethersfield, 8 Fairfield, 8

Stratford, 6 = 64.'*

"The officers of this Company that the Court requires
to be over them, are as follows: Lieut. Cooke is to be Com-
mander in Chief; Lieut. Bull to be their Lieutenant; Lieut.
Thomas Wheeler, of Fairfield, to be their Ensign ; Richard
Olmstead, of Norwocke, to be a Sergeant; and the other is
to be chosen by the officers of this Company ; Hugh Wells
to be their drummer."

In drafting men for this war a committee was appointed
in each town to act with the constable, to fill which Goodman
Groves and Goodman Thornton were appointed for Stratford.

The tax list for Stratford for the year 1654, only one year
later, as rendered to the General Court, contained seventy-
four tax payers, who were the owners of land or heads of
families, but not the entire number of the inhabitants. Hence
this draft took one in twelve of the men, and this while a
home guard or watch was kept for self-defence, just in plant-
ing time in the spring. The calamity of the time is indicated
by the General Court, June 25, 1653, thus: "It is ordered
by this Court that there shall forthwith be presented to the
Bay the present distresses, fears and dangers that the English

* Ibid, 242.

142 History of Stratford.

bordering upon the Dutch, both upon the Main [land] and
Long Island are in."

After these preparations for war had continued from
May until September, the news came that Massachusetts
would take no part in the proposed war against the Dutch,
which decision gave great offense to Connecticut and New
Haven, because they were greatly exposed to injury by the
Dutch, and had already made large expenditures for the war,
while Massachusetts was not, and had not. The Court of
New Haven convened October 12, and that of Connecticut
November 25, both considering that the Court of Massachu-
setts had willfully violated the articles of union. The people
at Stamford and Fairfield became much agitated and Capt.
Underbill, of Greenwich, sent to his friends at Rhode Island
for assistance "and with such Englishmen as he could obtain
made the best defence in his power.'"

Trumbull says: " The Dutch at New Netherlands waited
only for a reinforcement from Holland to attack and reduce
the English colonies. Of this both they and the English
were in constant expectation. It was reported and feared
that when the signals should be given from the Dutch ships
the Indians would rise, fire the English buildings and make
destructive work." If such had been the case no plantations
would have suffered more than Stratford, Fairfield and Derby,
for here were by far the greatest number of Indians except
east of New London. But fortunately the Dutch fleet of
reinforcement was defeated by the English at sea, and the
Indians remained friends to the settlers.

It was from the midst of these times of peril that some
trouble arose concerning Mr. Roger Ludlow, the staunchest
and ablest man as a lawyer and statesman that was at the
time in Connecticut. Trumbull says: " Stamford complained
that the government was bad, and the charges unreasonable,
and that they were neglected and deprived of their jusf
privileges. They sent to the General Court at New Haven
desiring them to prosecute the war against the Dutch, re-
solved to raise a number of men among themselves, and
prayed for permission to enlist volunters in the several towns.

^ Trumbull, i. 213.

Wars and Rtiviors of Wars. 143

" The town of Fairfield held a meeting on the subject,
and determined to prosecute the war. They appointed Mr.
Ludlow commander-in-chief. He was in the centre of the
evidence against the Dutch, had been one of the commission-
ers at the several meetings at Boston relative to the affair,
had been zealous and active for the war, and conceiving
himself and the town in imminent danger unless the Dutch
could be removed from the neighborhood, too hastily accepted
of the appointment. Robert Bassett and John Chapman
were at the head of this party. They attempted to foment
insurrections and, without any instructions from authority,
to raise volunteers for an expedition against the Nether-
lands."

This insurrection business was moonshine in the eye of
the historian, of which there probably never was a particle
of evidence. Robert Bassett and John Chapman with the
others had been arraigned before the New Haven Court
about eight months previous for speaking against the New
Haven Colony law that none should vote except church
members, which was, in the minds of some of those in au-
thority at that time, a terrible wickedness, and now, when
they again moved with energy to protect the plantations to
which they belonged from slaughter, after Massachusetts had
broken its agreement and left these towns to take care of
themselves or be annihilated, it was thought noble to make
Roger Ludlow, Robert Bassett and John Chapman the scape-
goats for the perfidy of others, who, although vested with
authority to protect the people and ordered to it by the home
government with war material furnished to hand, saw fit to
sit down in their chairs of state and take their ease at the
peril of the whole coast of Long Island Sound. Had the
Dutch fleet escaped the English on the ocean, as was intended,
there might not have been left a living man on the coast from
Rhode Island to the New Netherlands.

No wonder Mr. Ludlow sailed the next spring for Vir-
ginia, and Robert Bassett soon removed to Hempstead, L. I.

All these things added to the calamities which hindered
the toiling planters at Stratford as well as elsewhere through-

144 History of Stratford,

out one whole year, during which fortifications were estab-
lished along the Sound at considerable expense of money
and time, worked discouragement in the minds of the people^
when in September, 1654, the Commissioners resolved on
war with the Indian Chief Ninigret, or the Narraganset na-
tion, and for this expedition soldiers were drafted from the
several plantations in the following October: Windsor, 8;
Pequot, 4; Mattabeseck, i ;" Norwalk, o; Hartford, 9; Weth-
ersfield, 6; Farmington, 2; Seabrook, 4; Fairfield, 6; Strat-
ford, 5 = 45. The other colonies were to provide as follows:
"Massachusetts, 40 horsemen and 153 foot; Plymouth, 41;
and New Haven, 31." A part of this force was to be "dis-
patched with all expedition to the Niantic country, and the
remainder to hold themselves in readiness to march on notice
from the commander in chief." But as in the previous case
the Massachusetts General Court when it came together,
refused to take any part in this war. The committee to draft
the men in Stratford to fill this order was Thomas Sherwood
and Thomas Fairchild, with the Assistant and Constables.

At this, time (October, 1654) Connecticut and New Haven
fitted a frigate of ten or twelve guns with forty men, to
defend the coast against the Dutch (whom they had so def-
erentially declined to fight the year before), and to prevent
Ninigret and his Indians from crossing the Sound to prose-
cute his hostile designs against the Indians in alliance with
Connecticut. After considerable playing war by the Massa-
chusetts Major Willard, who finally came with troops as
commanding general in this expedition, the whole display
ended without so much as any smoke of battle, and the brave
troops returned home, while Ninigret flaunted his colors
more lively than ever.

The Connecticut Court allowed its soldiers in this expe-
dition pay as follows: common soldiers, 16^ per day; drum-
mers, 20"^; sergeants, 2^; ensigns, 2^ 6^; lieutenants. 3^; and
stewards, 2* per day.''

This proposed Indian war again awakened fear of a rising
or at least hostile conduct of the Indians still residing in for-

^Middletown. ' Col. Rec, i. 273.

Witches and Witchcraft 145

midable numbers in and near Stratford. Probably not less
than one thousand Indians were residing in Stratford, Mil-
ford, Fairfield and Derby, if not fifteen hundred ; and it was
not an infrequent thing for individuals and families to have
some difficulty with the Indians.

Thus matters continued as to the outside world with
only now and then a report of trouble with Ninigret's people,
until into the year 1656, when "The Protector, Oliver
Cromwell, having conquered Jamaica, made it a favorite
object to remove the people of New England to that island;
but while this proposition made some commotion as to its
importance and desirability and the contrar}^ it soon ceased
to excite interest, and the people remained on their several
plantations to improve them as best they could.

Witches and Witchcraft.

Historically speaking, the topics of witches and witch-
craft are to-day treated as questions of undoubted absurdity,
demanding only pity for their unfortunate victims. They
are also often ignorantly spoken of as the inventions of the
early settlers of New England, whereas they had been more
strongly believed and cherished in England hundreds of
years before New England was discovered, and always main-
tained as doctrines taught in the Bible. The New England
people revived a few old Mosaic laws and teachings, but
witches and witchcraft were none of them. Two eras for the
mania of treating these matters by severe penalties of law,
passed over New England, but suddenly disappeared ; the
one about 1650, the other in 1692 ; but the influence of a
sentiment or legendary stories of witches, still lives through-
out the United States as well as England, Germany and other
countries on the globe. Among the first impressions of fear
produced upon the mind of the author of this book, were
those resulting from seeing " witch marks" in the unfinished
chambers of dwellings in the western part of Albany county^
N. Y. — his native place — which region was settled first by
the Dutch, and afterwards by New England people, in the
latter part of the seventeenth century. He does not remem-
ber having ever seen a dwelling (and he saw many") built by

10 ,

146 History of Stratford.

the Dutch, that had not these marks on the inside of the roof
to prevent witches from troubling the family ; and the witch
stories of his boyhood days, represented as actual transac-
tions in that region, were almost without number. This
belief as developed in that part of the country did not origi-
nate in New England but came with the Dutch from their
native land. The following is one of those stories related
about fifty )^ears ago, as stated above, and is given as illustra-
tive of the beliefs of those times, and also as showing that
witch troubles existed elsewhere besides in Connecticut and
Massachusetts.

A farmer's wife in churning cream to secure butter, spent
several hours without success, and gave up the effort as use-
less. Upon her husband coming into the house, she related
her fruitless toil of the morning, when he, being strongly
impressed with the thought that some one had bewitched the
cream out of envy toward his family, took his old musket
and fired a full charge through the cream and the bottom of
the churn. He then stopped the hole made through the bot-
torh of the churn and his wife with a few minutes' labor fin-
ished the churning, securing the proper amount of butter; but
that day, at the time of the shooting an old woman of the
place was taken suddenly with a fit and died without any
apparent cause, and the matter was talked of as though the
community was rid of one witch. Many stories were told,
particularly to the effect, that children and young people
were prostrated by sickness for weeks and years by the envy
and spite of witches, who were always represented as being
old women.

The following account of witch troubles in Fairfield
County having been collected with great carefulness and
expense of time by Major W. B. Hinks and the Rev. B. L.
Swan in some " Historical Sketches," printed in 1871, is so
complete that it is here given as a proper historical summary
of this lamentable delusion.

" It will doubtless be a matter of surprise to many to
learn that any trials and executions for this imaginary crime
ever took place outside of the State of Massachusetts, and

Witches and Witchcraft. 147

particularly in this vicinity, historians generally being silent
upon the subject. Dr. Trumbull indeed, in the preface to his
history of Connecticut, says that one or two executions at
Stratford were reported by an obscure tradition, and that this
tradition together with a minute in Goff's Journal by Gov-
ernor Hutchinson, respecting the execution of Ann Coles,'
'is all the information to be found ' on this subject. He also
adds that ' after the most careful research, no indictment of
any person for that crime nor any process' relative thereto
can be found.

Omitting all mention of cases in other parts of the State,
let us inquire respecting the executions stated by Dr. Trum-
bull, to have taken place in Stratford.

We have here something more trustworthy than obscure
tradition to guide us, for in the month of May, 165 1, the fol-
lowing order was passed by the General Court, in session at
Hartford :

" The Governor, Mr. CuUick and Mr. Clarke, are desired
to goe down to Stratford to keep Courte upon the tryal of
Goody Bassett for her life, and if the Governor cannott goe,
then Mr. Wells is to go in his room."

That the Goody Bassett mentioned in this entry was put
to death as a witch, cannot perhaps be positively demon-
strated ; but there is strong indirect evidence to show that
such was the case, contained in the minutes of a trial pre-
served in the New Haven records. In this trial, which took
place in 165 1, one of the witnesses in the course of her testi-
mony referred to a goodwife Bassett who had been con-
demned for witchcraft at Stratford, and another alluded to
the confession of the witch at that place.'

"The place of her execution is pointed by tradition to
this day, and would seem to be determined by the names
"Gallows Brook" and "Gallows Swamp" in the first vol-
ume of Stratford town records. The former was a small

'Ann Coles, is the case supposed to be referred to in Mather's Magnalia,
book vi. ch. vii.

' Col. Rec. i. 220. ^ New Haven Col. Rec. ii. 77-3S.

148 History of Stratford.

stream, long since dried up or diverted into another channel,
emptying into the swamp, a portion of which yet remains, a
little south of the present railroad depot. A rude bridge
stoned up at the sides, crossed this brook, just where the Old
Mill road and the railway intersect. The remains of the
bridge were exhumed by the workmen about thirty years
since, when the railroad was graded at that point. At
that bridge, uniform tradition states the execution of the
witch by hanging to have taken place. Near by where
the street from the village turns off toward the depot, was,
until quite recently, a small quartz boulder, with hornblende
streaks like finger marks upon it, which was connected with
the fate of Goody Bassett, by an ancient and superstitious
tradition. The story was, that on her way to the place of
execution, while struggling against the officers of the law,
the witch grasped this stone and left these finger marks upon
it. The stone, with its legend, came down to our day, but a
few years since an unromantic individual used it in building
a cellar wall, not far from the place where it had been lying.

" In October, 1653, about two and a half years after the
event just narrated, the General Court passed another resolu-
tion in the following words: " Mr. Ludlow, Mr. Wells, Mr.
Westwood and Mr. Hull, are desired to keep a perticulier
Courte at Fairfield, before winter to execute justice there as
cause shall require."

"The unfortunate person on whose account justice was
to be executed was, as before, a woman, charged with witch-
craft. She is designated simply as ' Knapp's wife,' or * good-
wife Knapp,' in the only account we have of the proceedings ;
namely, a number of depositions in the case of Thomas Staples
of Fairfield, who in the spring of 1654, sued Roger Ludlow
of that place, for calling his wife a witch. It is not impossi-
ble that goody Knapp may have been the wife of Roger
Knapp of New Haven, who removed to Fairfield, although
his name is not mentioned among the residents there until
1656, His son, Nathaniel, lived in Pequannock in 1690, and
joined the church afterwards organized there, his name occur-

* Col. Rec, i. 249.

Witches and Witchcraft. 149

ring frequently upon the early records of the North Church
in Bridgeport.

" The trial took place in the autumn of 1653, before a
jury and several 'godly magistrates' (the same probably that
are named in the order of the General Court), and doubtless
lasted several days. There were many witnesses, but the
indictment and the substance of the greater part of their tes-
timony are wanting. We learn, however, that a strong and
perhaps decisive point against the accused, was the evidence
of Mrs. Lucy Pell and Goody Odell, the midwife, who by
direction of the Court had examined the person of the pris-
oner, and testihed to finding upon it certain witch marks,
which were regarded as proof positive of intimacies. Mrs.
Jones, wife of the Fairfield minister, was also present at this
examination, but whether as a spectator or as one of the
examiners, is not clearly stated.

"The jury brought in a verdict of guilty, and goodwife
Knapp was sentenced to death. After her condemnation she
was visited by numbers o' the towns-people, who constantly
urged her to confess herself a witch and betray her accompli-
ces, on the ground that it would be for the benefit of her soul ;
and that while there might have been some reason for her
silence before the trial, since a confession then might have
prejudiced her case, there could be none now, for the reason
that she was sure to die in any event. "The pains of perdition
were held up to her as sure to be her portion, in case of a
refusal.

" Upon one of these occasions, the minister and a number
ot the towns-people being present, the poor woman replied to
her well-meaning tormentors that she ' must not say an3^thing
that was not true,' she ' must not wrong anybody,' but that
if she had anything to say before she went out of the world
she would reveal it to Mr. Ludlow, at the gallows. Elizabeth
Brev/ster, a bystander, answered coarsely, 'if you keep it a
little longer till you come to the ladder, the devil will have
you quick, if you reveal it not till then.' ' Take care,' replied
the prisoner indignantly, ' that the devil have not you ; for
you cannot tell how soon you may be my companion.' ' The

150 History of Stratford.

truth is,' she added, 'you would have me to say that good-
wife Staples is a witch, but I have sins enough to answer for
already, and I hope that I shall not add to my condemnation;
I know nothing against goodwife Staples, and I hope she is
an honest woman.' She was sharply rebuked by Richard
Lyon, one of her keepers, for this language, as tending to
create discord between neighbors after she should be dead,
but she answered, 'goodman Lyon, hold your tongue, you
know not what I know; I have been fished withall in private
more than you are aware of. I apprehend that goodwife
Staples hath done me wrong in her testimony, but 1 must not
return evil for evil.' When further urged, and reminded that
she was now to die, and therefore should deal truly, she burst
into tears, and desired her persecutors to cease, saying, in
words that must have lingered long in the memory of those
who heard, and which it is impossible now to read without
emotion,—' never, never, poor creature was tempted as 1 am
tempted; pray, pray for me.'

Yet it appears that her fortitude sometimes gave way,
and that she was induced to make a frivolous confession to
the effect that Mrs. Staples once told her that an Indian had
brought to her several little objects brighter than the light of
day, telling her that they were Indian gods, and would cer-
tainly render their possessor rich and powerful ; but that
Mrs. Staples had refused to receive them. This story she
subsequently retracted.

" The procession to the place of execution, which is
stated by an eye-witness to have been ' between the house of
Michael Try and the mill,' or a little west ot Stratfield bound-
ary, included magistrates and ministers, young persons and
those of maturer years, doubtless nearly the entire popula-
tion of Fairfield. On the way to the fatal spot the clergyman*
again exhorted the poor woman to confess, but was rebuked
by her companion Mrs. Staples, who cried, ' Why bid her con-
fess what she is not ? I make no doubt, but that if she were a
witch she would confess."

" Under the shadow of the gallows the heart of Goody
Knapp must again have failed her, for being allowed a

* Rev. John Jones, who came from England in 1635.

Witches and WitcJicraft. 1 5 1

moment's grace after she had mounted the ladder, she
descended and repeated her former trifling- story respecting
Mrs. Staples, in the ear of Mr. Ludlow, her magistrate. If
this was done in hope of obtaining a reprieve, as seems likely,
the poor creature was disappointed, for she was speedily
turned off by the executioner, and hung suspended until life
was extinct.

" When the body had been cut down and laid upon the
green turf beside the grave, a number of women crowded
about it eager to examine the witch signs. In the foreground
we see Mrs. Staples kneeling beside the corpse, and in the
language of one of the witnesses, ' wringing her hands and
taking ye Lord's name in her mouth,' as she asseverates the
innocence of the murdered woman. Calling upon her com-
panions to look at the supposed witch-marks, she declares that
they were naught but such as she herself or any woman had.
* Aye, and be hanged for them, and deserve it too,' was the
reply of one of the older women present. Whereupon a
general clamor ensued, and seeing that there was now noth-
ing to be gained, and much to be apprehended if she persisted,
Mrs. Staples yielded, and returned home.

Among the names occurring in that narrative are some
like Gould, Buckly and Lyon, that are common in Fairfield
to this day. The Odells and Sherwoods may have been resi-
dents of Pequannock." Mr. Ludlow saw fit to repeat the story
told him by the dying woman, and to further assert that Mrs.
Staples had not only laid herself under the suspicion of being
a witch, but " made a trade of lying." Hence the suit already
mentioned, in which the New Haven Court had the good sense
to give a decision in favor of the plaintiff, and allow him fifteen
pounds damages.

The last trial in the State of Connecticut for the crime of
witchcraft took place in Fairfield in 1692, the same year in
which the delusion rose to such a fearful height in Salem,
Massachusetts. Capt. John Burr, one of the magistrates in
this trial, was the father of the principal founder of St. John's
Church, Bridgeport, and the name of Isaac Wheeler, a jury-

* There were no settlers at Pequannock as early as 1654.

152 History of Stratford.

man, may be seen upon the records of the North Congrega-
tional Church in Bridgeport.

Mercy Disborough, one of the accused persons was
from Compo or Westport. Three others, Elizabeth Clawson,
goody Miller, and the widow Staples were indicted at the
same time. The last named may have been the same person
who, as we have seen, was suspected of being a witch nearly
forty years before. The following extracts show the compo-
sition of the Court, and the manner of conducting the trial.

" At a special court of Oyer and Terminer, held at Fayre-
field, September 19th, 1692. Present, Robert Treat, Esq.,
Govenour, William Jones, Esq., Deputy Govenour, John
Allyn, Secretary, Mr. Andrew Leete, Capt. John Bur, Mr.
William Pitkin, Capt. Moses Mansfield, (composing the
Court.)

" ' The Grand Jurors impaneled were Mr. Joseph Bay-
ard, Sam'l Ward, Edward Hayward, Peter Ferris, Jonas
Waterbur)^ John Bowers, Samuel Sherman, Samuel Galpin,
Ebenezer Booth, John Piatt, Christopher Comstock, Wm.
Reed; who presented a bill of indictment against Mercy Dis-
borough, in the words following, to wit:

" ' A bill exhibited against Mercy Disborough, wife of
Thomas Disborough, of Compo, in county of Fayrefield, in
colony of Connecticut.

" ' Mercy Disborough, wife of Thomas Disborough, of
Compo in Favrefield, thou art here indicted by the name of
Mercy Disborough, thal^ not having the fear of God before
thine eyes, thou hast had familiarity with Satan the grand
enemy of God and man, and that by his instigation and help,
thou hast in a preternatural way afflicted and done harm to
the bodyes and estates of sundry of their Majestie's Subjects,
or to some of them, contrary to the peace of our sovereign
Lord and Ladie, the King and Queen, their crown and digni-
tie ; and on the 25th of April of their majestie's reigns, and at
sundry other limes, for which by the laws of God and this
colony, thou deservest to die.' John Allyn, Secretary.

Fayrefield, 15th September, 1662.

Witches and Witchcraft. 153

" ' The indictment having- been read, the prisoner pleaded
not guilty ; and referred herself to tryal by God and her
countrie, which countrie was the jury after written.'

Names of the petit jury : — James Beers, Isaac Wheeler,
John Osborn, John Miles, Ambrose Thompson, John Hubby,
John Bowton, Samuel Hayes, Eleazer Slawson, John Belden,
John VVakeman, Joseph Rowland,'

The depositions of nearly two hundred witnesses were
taken in this case. That their evidence was of triflng ch^irac-
ter, will be inferred from the annexed specimens, and these
clearly show the excited state of public feeling at the time,
that such accusations were the means of putting in jeopardy
the lives of several innocent persons, and of causing the sen-
tence of death to be passed upon one. Two of the deposi-
tions copied here relate to the water ordeal, and there is also
evidence to show that the persons of the accused were exam-
ined for proofs of guilt."

" ' At a Court held at Fayrefield ye 15th day of Septem-
ber, 1692. The testimony of Hester Groment, aged thirty-
five years or thereabouts, testifieth ; that when she lay sick
some time in May last she saw, about midnight or past, the
widow Staples, that is, the shape of her person, and the shape
of Mercy Disborough, sitting upon the floor by the two chests
that stand by the side of the house in the iner rume, and Mrs.
Staples' shape dancing upon the bed's feet with a white cup
in her hand, and performed some three times. Sworn in
Court, September 15th, 1692.

Attest : John Allyn, Secretary.

"'Edward Jesop, aged about twenty-nine years, testi-
fieth ; that being at Thomas Disburow's house at Compoh,
sometime in ye beginning of last winter in the evening, he
asked me to tarry and sup with him ; and there 1 saw a pig
roasted that looked very well, but when it came to ye table
(where we had a very good lite) it seemed to me to have no
skin upon it, and looked very strangely ; but when ye sd. Dis-

' Conn. Col. Rec, iv. 76, note. Samuel Sherman and Samuel Galpin of Strat-
ford were on the Grand Jury which found a true bill for witchcraft against Mercy
Disborough in September, 1692.

154 History of Stratford.

burrow began to eat it, ye skin (to my apprehension) came
upon it, and it seemed to be as it was when it was upon the
spit, at which strange alteration of ye pigg I was much con-
cerned. However, fearing to displease his wife by refus-
ing to eat, I did eat some of ye pig ; and the same time Isaac
Sherwood being there, and Disburrow's wife and he discours-
ing concerning a certain place of Scripture, and I being of
ye same minde that Sherwood was concerning ye place of
Scripture, and Sherwood telling her where ye place of Scrip-
ture was, she brought a bible (that was of very large print,)
but though I had a good light and looked directly upon the
book I could not see one letter; but looking upon it while in
her hands, alter she had turned over a few leaves, I could see
to read it above a yard off.

" Ye same night going home, and coming to Compoh
creek, it seemed to be high water, whereupon I went to a can-
nooe that was about ten rods off (which lay upon such a bank
as ordinarily 1 could have shoved it into ye creek with ease),
though 1 lifted with all my might and lifted one end from the
ground, I could by no means push it into ye creek ; and then
the water seemed so loe y* I might ride over, whereupon I
went again to the water side, but then it appeared as at first,
very high ; and then going to ye canooe again, and finding I
could not get it into ye creek I thought to ride round to
where I had often been, and knew ye way as well as before
my own dore, and had my old cart horse ; yet I could not
keep him in ye road, do what I could, but he often turned
aside into ye bushes, and then went backwards, so that though
I kept upon my horse and did my best endeavour to get
home, 1 was ye greater part of ye night wandering before I
got home, altho' it was not much more than two miles.

Fayrefield, September 15th, 1692. Sworn in Court Sep-
tember 15, 1692.

Attest : John Allyn, Secretary.

" Mr. John Wakeman, aged thirty-two years, and Samuel
Squire, made oath that they saw Mercy Disburrow put into
the water, and that she swam upon the water. This done, in
Court, September 15th, 1692.

Test : John Allyn, Secretary.

Witches and Witchcraft. 155

" The testimony of Abraham Adams and Jonathan Squire
also is, that when Mercy Disburrow and Elizabeth Clawson
were bound hand and foot and put into the water, they swam
like cork; and one labored to press them into the water, and
they buoyed up like cork.*

Sworn in Court, September 15th, 1692.

Attest: John Allyn, Secretary.

" Catharine Beach, aged seventeen years or thereabouts,
testifieth and saith, that sometime this last Somer She saw
and felt goodwife Clawson and Mercy Disborough afflict her,
not together, but apart, by scratching and pinching and
wringing her body ; and farther, saith that goodwife Clawson
was the first that did afflict her, and afterward Mercy Dis-
borough ; and after that sometimes one of them, and some-
times the other of them ; and in her afflictions though it was
night, yet it appeared as light as noone day.

Sworn in Court, September 19th, 1692.

Attest: John Allyn, Secretary.

" Having taken this testimony and much more of a sim-
ilar character, the court adjourned for several weeks. On
the 28th of October, 1692, it assembled again at the same
place, and after taking further evidence, the case was sub-
mitted to the jury. Elizabeth Clawson, goody Miller, and
the widow Staples were acquitted, but a verdict was returned
against Mercy Disborough of ' guilty,' according to the
indictment, of familiarity with Satan. Being sent forth to
consider their verdict, the jury returned saying they saw no
cause to alter it, but found her guilty as before. Their ver-
dict was approved by the court, and sentence of death passed
upon the prisoner by the Governor. It seem.s probable, how-
ever, that she escaped this fate, and was pardoned, with the
return to reason which followed the collapse of the Salem
delusion, for a woman named Mercy Disborough was living

'The water test was the process of binding the hands and feet and putting
them in sufficient water upon the supposition that if they were witches they
would float upon the water, but if they were not witches they would sink, and
thus prove their innocence.

156 History of Stratford.

in Fairfield in 1707, and is named as one of the executors
upon the estate of her husband Thomas."

Witchcraft in Co?inectictit. — Authentic Records.

1648-9. Mary Johnson of Windsor was executed at Hart-
ford, which was the first case in New England.'*
165 1. Goody Bassett executed at Stratford.'^
1653. Goodwife Knapp executed at Fairfield.^
1653, Elizabeth Goodman of New Haven accused.*^

1657. Thomas Mullener of New Haven accused.®

1658. Goodwife Garlick of East Hampton, L. I. was
tried at that place and sent to and tried at Hartford and
acquitted.^

1659. Mr. Willis and Dept. Governor Mason are ordered
by the Court to investigate a case of "witchery" at Say-
brook.^

1662. Greensmith and his wife executed at Hartford and
two others fly from the country .'^

1663. Elizabeth Seager was indicted in Hartford for
witchcraft, but convicted of adultery on another count in the
indictment. She was tried again in June, 1665, and found
guilty, but the court set aside the verdict, for informality.^

1670. Catharine Harrison of Wethersfield tried and con-
victed of witchcraft at Hartford, but allowed to pay costs
and leave the town.''

" Winthrop, vol. ii. 374. Col. Rec. i. 143, 171, and Savage's Genealogical
Dictionary, article Johnson.

'' Conn. Col. Rec, i. 220. New Haven Col. Rec, ii. 8i.

"= New Haven Col. Rec, ii. 77-84. Conn. Col. Rec, i. 249. Kingsley's Hist.
Discourse.

^ New Haven Col. Rec, ii. 29, 151.

* New Haven Col. Rec, ii. 224.

"■Conn. Col. Rec, i. 573. Doc. Hist, of New York, i. 683.

g Conn. Col. Rec, i. 338.

'' Mather's Magnalia, ii. book 6, p. 390 ; Remark Prov. Chap. 5.

' Winthrop, ii. 374.

''Conn. Col. Rec, ii. 132, note.

SonictJiing besides IVitcJies. 1 5 7

1671. False accusations made by Elizabeth Knapp of
Groton.'

1692. Trial of Disborough, Clason, Miller and Staples at
Fairfield, and the first convicted and sentenced.'"

1694. " VVinfield Benham, Sen. and his son VVinfield
Benham, Jr. were charged with witchcraft at VVallingford,
but the Grand Jury refused to find an inditement.""

Iniprovernents for the Public.

Public improvements, in the early settlement were con-
fined more strictly to the things absolutely needful for the
general success and advantage, and this not because the
settlers could not appreciate the artistic and beautiful but
because of the straitened circumstances in which they were
placed. Of their ability to appreciate elegance and culti-
vated taste there is sufficient evidence in the laying out the
village plot and its subsequent improvement. The first loca-
tion of the company which came from Wethersfield, consist-
ing according to tradition, of fourteen or fifteen families, was
around or near Sandy Hollow where the first meeting-house
was erected; then with much deliberation, apparently, they
arranged and laid out the plan of the village by opening the
highways, very much as they are to-day, only the streets at
first were somewhat wider; especially Front street, now Elm.

The first record found in regard to public convenience,
is concerning a ferry : " The motion made by Mr. Ludlow,,
concerning Moses Wheeler for keeping the Ferry at Strat-
ford, is referred to such as shall keep the next court at Fayer-
field, both in the behalf of the Country and the Town of
Stratford."" The Fairfield Court gave a favorable order, for
the ferry was established, and running as appears by the fol-

' Mather's Magnalia, ii. book 6, p. 390.

" Conn. Col. Rec. iv. 76 note, and 79. T. Lord's Scrap-book.

° The authorit}' for this reported case has not been seen. Mr. C. H. Hoadly.
in preface to Col. Rec, vol. vi. says, there was but one subsequent indictment,
nannely, that of two females in Wallingford in October, 1697, upon which the
Grand Jury returned, " ignoramus."

° Col. Rec, i. 163.

158 Hist 01' y of Stratford,

lowing town record : "April 14, 1653. In consideration that
the passage to the ferry was stopped up the town gave order
to the townsmen to pull up the fence and make way for pas-
sengers where they had laid out the way formerly and they
promised to bear them out in that act." The ferry continued
in the Wheeler family three generations at least.

A mill to grind grains was one of the first public improve-
ments, and being attended to before the year 1650, the present
records contain no account of the time, or manner of building
it, but a record of Nov. 7, 1671, informs us that it was in
existence, for a division of the land between the mile-path
and the fence " was ordered. The mill was a tidewater mill
and stood on Nesumpavvs creek, southwest of the village of
Stratford, probably, on the east side of the creek.

In 1652, the town by vote made a proposition for another
mill, and John Hurd and Thomas Sherwood entered upon the
work, and two years later the enterprise was established as
follows: "Jan. 5, 1654. John Hurd and Thomas Sherwood in
consideration of the expense laid out for the making and
keeping a mill to grind the town's corn, do require the town
to give them forty acres of upland lying as near the mill as
may be, bounded as foUoweth ; the creek eastward of it, the
common highway on the north, the commons west and south-
ward ; and three spots of meadow a little belo^vv the mill ; all
which is granted by the said townsmen.

Philip Groves, ] JOHN HURD,

Thomas Fairchild, I ThOMAS ShERWOOD."

Richard Butler, ^ townsmen.
John Wells. j

These items were all according to the proposition made
by the town, in 1652, and the mill stood at what is now the
east end of Old Mill Green. The town required that the
land should not be sold from the mill ; that if either partner
desired to sell the property, he should give the town the first
chance to buy ; and that the millers who were to have the
sixteenth part of the corn they should grind, should use a
measure provided by the town — " an even and just measure,"
so that " when it was stricken it may be just the sixteenth
part of a bushel."

Iinprovcments fo?' the Public. 150

JPublir ScJiool was another enterprise entered upon b}"-
town vote to the following effect:

" 1650. It was agreed by the town that they would give
£^6 by the year to a schoolmaster, the town to bear one-half
and the parents of the children the other half." The same
vote was passed the next year, and the same enterprise has
characterized the township to the present day.

A proposition having been presented to the Commission-
ers of the United Colonies in 1644 to take collections yearly
for the " poor scholars at Cambridge," it was approved by
all, and committees were appointed for each town in Con-
necticut, and that for Stratford consisted of William Judson
and John Hurd. Thus early and benevolently did the plan-
tations unite in efforts for general education ; and the higher,
classical schools as well, for where these latter are neglected
the others are.

The first select school of the place was inaugurated,
probably, in obedience to a town vote, March 17, 1670, "that
the present townsmen shall endeavor b}^ inquiry to see if
there be children sufficient in the town whose parents are
free to place them to school, that there may be encourage-
ment to endeavor the obtaining a schoolmaster and endeavor
to procure either Mr. Mitchell, Mr. Benj. Blakeman, John
Minor, or an}- other suitable person."

Taxes were of small amount compared with those of the
present day, but were very burdensome at the time; and
were paid in produce and not in money ; the produce was
shipped to Boston, New York, Barbados and the West
Indies. Barbados was the principal market for grains out-
side of the coast, and Alexander Bryan, of Milford, was the
great shipping merchant for thirt}^ or more years from the
settlement of Milford in 1639. There was no leading shipping
merchant at Stratford ; the man who approached nearest to
it was Joseph Hawley, followed more prominently by his
son, Samuel Hawley, a few years later.

The taxes were accepted in grains, and hence the gov-
ernment fixed the price of each yearly, and that price was
the standard for exchange and private dealings.

i6o Htstojy of Stratford.

Stratford was not taxed, probably, for the general gov-
ernment until 1645, and for several years afterwards Stratford
and Fairfield rates were collected together, or as of one plan-
tation. The General Court order in 1646, that the rates of
Stratford and Fairfield should be divided, but they were
reported together after that.'

The assessment for Taxes by the Connecticut Colon)', May 9, 1647, was for
;^I50, and Hartford, Windsor, Wethersfield. Seabrook and Farmington, only, are
mentioned in the list.

Grand List of Connecticut, fan. 2^, 1648.

Hartford _ ;^35 : 10 Farmington, ;^ 8 : 00

Windsor 24:10 Long Island,.. 5:00

Wethersfield, 24:00 Fairfield and Stratford, 20:00

Seabrook, . 8:00

Grand List of Contiecticut, October, i6^j.

Hartford, — -.;,^22404 : 19 Seabrooke, ^4150.

Windsor, 15435 Fairfield, 8895:3

Wethersfield, 12748 Stratford,.. 7118:8:6

Farmington, 4741

;^75492 : 10 : 6

G7'and List of Connecticut for the year 16^2, October.

Hartford, ;if 19733 : 19 Seabrooke, ;;^3630 : 00

Wyndsor, 14093:00 Stratford, 7040:19

Wethersfield, 11499:00 Fairfield, 8850:15

Farmington, 5164:00

;^700ir : 13

Gratid List of Connecticut for October, i6_$j,

Hartford, ;,fi9749 Norwake, ;^I968

Windsor, 15084 Matabezek, 1501

Wethersfield, 12243 Pequet,. _ 3334

Farmington, 5157 Fairfield, 8822

Seabrook 4268 Stratford 7450:19

Stratford Marhor^ or, according to the more recent
name, Mack's Creek, from a negro of that name who made it his
business to gather and sell oyster shells to make lime — there
being no stone lime in that place at that time. His daily
work was to go down the harbor and obtain a canoe load of
shells and return, and in this way keep a supply for sale on

'For comparison, the Grand Lists of Connecticut for a few years are here
given.

hiipro-vi'tnciits for the /^iiblic. i6i

the north point at the mouth of this creek,- and hence the
name Shellkeep Point, as the locality is still called.

At first there was deep water at the mouth of this creek,
but the building of the wharf into the channel of the river, a
quarter of a mile north, turned the current so that it became
muddy south of the wharf down to the mouth of the creek,
and hence all the sedge grass land at that place has been
made since the settlement began. This creek was once so
deep that Capt. Gorham used to winter his schooner of
200 tons burthen in it. He lived on the corner of the
high ground a few rods north of the creek, the point now
called Prospect Hill. On this site Mr. Nathan B, McEwen,'"
a descendant of Capt. Gorham, was born April 23, 1806, and
from whom a number of interesting facts and historical
narratives have been obtained.

Sometime before the year 1800 a dyke was made across
this creek so that the water could not pass, but so much
sickness of dysentery and typhus fever followed, that in 1805
the town voted to remove it, and leave the creek open.
After it was opened and the salt water let in, there came to
the surface out of this ground great quantities of worms, and
their decay caused more sickness than had been before, but
after that year the sickness ceased. In i860 the dyke was
again built and afterwards in dry summers there was consid-
erable sickness as before, for a few years, along the line of
the creek.

This harbor was a place of great importance for many
years, it being the only place along the river where vessels
could find a safe retreat in an easterly storm. The Housa-
tonic river (Indian name was Pootatuck) was a broad sheet
of water, with very little if any meadow or sedge grass along
its banks, and one island in it, which was granted by the town
to Nicholas Knell, for meadow, in about 1650, and which still
bears his name, but it was then much smaller than now,
according to tradition. It has been stated that the island
was not there when the whites first came, but that is suffi-
ciently refuted by the town record of its grant to Mr. Knell.

'•> Manuscript of Mr. Nathan li. McEwen.
II

1 62 History of Stratford.

This harbor was particularly advantageous in consequence of
the small sized boats used at first and for nearly two hundred
years. Boats were very few for many years, but canoes were
common, being made of one pine log, the inside being cut out,
sometimes three feet wide and from fifteen to thirty feet in
length. These canoes were quite convenient as oyster boats
and for fishing, and were in demand until fifty years ago. As
late as 1825 many were made in the northern and western
part of the State of New York and floated down the Erie
canal and Hudson river and brought to New Haven where
they brought from sixty to one hundred dollars each, some of
them being thirty feet in length and without a knot in them.
The oysters were very plenty in the Housatonic river from
where the old Washington bridge stood to the Sound, in
water from twelve to twenty feet deep, the longest handles
'to the rakes being twenty-two feet, and the number of bush-
els taken out in a day being sometimes fift}^ Mr. Nathan B.
McEwen remembers that one man made a bet that he could
take out, in twelve feet of water, in a day, one hundred bush-
els, but lost his bet by only a few bushels. The oysters then
were very large and of rare quality. The shells still dug up
from two feet under ground, where the}^ were deposited by
the Indians, show their very large size and the gravelly
bottom on which they grew, for some of them are very
rough or full of indentures made by growing on a gravelly
bed. The oysters from here were sold in Boston, New York
and other cities as of the best quality. The immense quanti-
ties of shells left by the Indians in the fields a little back from
the western shore near the mouth of the river indicate the
Indian's appreciation of oysters for many generations, but the
oysters now opened in one year at Stratford leave more
shells, probably, than all left in all past time by the Indians.

Hatxdy HoJloWf near Mack's Creek, was quite a hollow
extending west some distance, which is called Sandy Hollow
because the sand was deep, at first, and the tide came up the
hollow, frequently, some distance. This has been filled by
taking off the hill east during the many years that have
passed since the first settlement.

Iiiiprovciiunts for the Public. i6

GuiU'd ItilU directly in front of South avenue, on llie east
side oi Front, or I^lm street, was cjuite a hill, higher than at
present, which was called Guard Hill at the time of the first
settlement because it was the parade ground or rendezvous
for the guards or soldiers on watch against any attacks by
the Indians. The hill extended north some distance from the
creek, forming quite a plateau, terminating at the creek in a
high bluff of soft sand, which was a noted place for athletic
sports, specially of running and jumping, and for children to
ride down on sleds. The first meeting house stood at the
west end of this high bank, as elsewhere described.

Liittle Neck lay at the south of Mack's Creek, and was
formed by a tide creek on the west which was originally of
considerable depth. The north end of this neck was owned,
at first, so far as the records now show, by Thomas Uffoot
and by him was sold in 1661 to Nicholas Gray, from Flush-
ing, Long Lsland, who had a tide-mill where the lane or
highway crosses Little Neck creek, and to him the town
granted, in 167 1, another piece of land adjoining on the south
if he should maintain his dam wide enough for a passable
highwa)^

CHAPTER VIII.

THE CHURCH OF CHRIST IN

STRATFORD.

HE earliest mention of this Church now dis-
fl,- coverable is in a vote by the Milford Church
to invite the attendance of the Stratford
Church and its aid on the occasion of ordain-
ing " Bro. Whitman " as a ruling elder.
The elders of the Church in New
Haven were also invited and were pres-
ent at the ordination, June 26, 1645, at
which time Stratford Church was repre-
sented by its " pastor and another messen-
ger." It is most probable that this Church
was organized in the summer of 1639, the
year when Mr. Blakeman and his followers
came to the place, and if not, they began
their work that year as a company of believ-
ers devoted to the Christian cause. The
Rev. Adam Blakeman, who had labored as an ordained min-
ister in England, was their pastor and served them about
twenty-six years. Whatever church records he kept must
have remained among his private papers, and are lost, and
the same was true with the Rev. Israel Chauncey's records
until 1675, with which year the existing volume commences.
Nothing of Mr. Blakeman's writing is known to be e: tant
except a paper drawn in 1665 by the Rev. Israel Chauncey as
his assistant minister, which he subscribed.

No list of the membership, nor of the officers are found
but the following names as the Deacons have been ascertained.

First CJiurcJL in Stratford. 165

The Ruling Elder and Deacons' of the Congregational CJiurcJi

of Stratford.

Philip Groves was the hrst and only Ruling Elder in
this Church from 1640 to his death in 1675.

Deacons :

John Birdseye. Ebenezer Coe.
John Wilcoxson. Nathan McEwen.
Thomas Wells. Samuel Uffoot.
Robert Walker. Agur Curtis.
John Thompson. Philo Curtis.
Ephraim Judson. Agur Curtis 2d.
Peat. David P. Judson.

Elnathan Wheeler. Agur Treat Curtis.

Israhiah Brown. Lewis Beers.

The first sexton and bell-ringer was John Peat, the first
of the name in Stratford, called in those days in a friendly
way Goodman Peat. He held this office until 1660, when
John Pickett was elected by the town to fill the place.

The First Meeting house stood on the east side of
Front, now Elm street, at Sandy Hollow, on the southeast
corner. This house must have been very plain, and of small
dimensions, but there are no records by which its size or
height can be ascertained. It was built without a gallery at
first, for the following vote is recorded : " Feb. 4, 1661. It
was agreed that there shall be a gallery builded in the meet-
ing house in the convenient place."

The first burial ground was adjoining the meeting house
and burials were probably made there until the new ground,
which was laid by the town in 1677, was opened where it now
is, in 1678, west of Main street. The grave stones standing
at the old place were removed to the new. In the excava-
tions made at the old ground since it was abandoned several
skeletons have been exhumed. Quite manv graves were made
without head stones and no traces of them were to be seen
when the removals were made, and hence after more than a
hundred years some bones were found in digging a well that
is still in existence near the barn standing on the old site.

' Manuscript of the Rev. B. L. Swan.
12

1 66 History of Stratford.

The almost total obliteration of this burying place is
symbolical of the life of man, and our reflections, while mel-
ancholy, may be instructive. In the graveyard are still a few
plain stones which were removed from the old ground, with
rude inscriptions, consisting simply of initials of a name with
a date such as, " E. B., March 9, 1652." Whom did men bear
to his lowly rest beneath this monument, two hundred and
fifty-two years ago? Was it a stranger, or did he or she
belong to one of the families of Blakeman, Burritt, Booth,
Bostwick, Beardsley, or Beach? x\nother is "J. H. 1690,
M. TOO." Who was this, born in 1590, somewhere amid the
troublous times of the Mother Country, when the fires around
the martyrs' stake had but just gone out? And yet another
— "J. H., June 25, 1691," without the age. Others have no
monumental letters, — only the date, as : " March, 1684," and
" January, 1691 ;" and others there were, barely a stone,
weather-chafed, shapeless, and yielding to most curious inqui-
sition only defaced particles of an inscription, in which no
letter or figure can be determined." How much is it to be
regretted that these stones do not tell us more about those
who fell in a strange land, the first sacrifices for a liberated
conscience and an enlarged freedom. How pleasing the
thought that man but begins, in this life the high and noble
purpose for which he is created, and looks forward to a
larger sphere of activities and enjoyments, as set forth in the
beautiful words of Everett in his commemoration of the
decease of the great Webster: " The wakeful eyes are closed,
the feverish pulse is still, the tired and trembling limbs are
relieved from their labors, and the aching head is laid to rest
upon the lap of its Mother Earth, like a play-worn child at
the close of a summer's day; but all that we honored and
loved in the living man begins to live again in a new and
higher being of influence and fame."

What Happened in the first Meeting House.

The first sexton, so far as known, was John Peat, called
" Goodman Peake," and " Goodman Pickett " was elected by

* Manuscript of the Rev. B. L. Swan.

First ChurcJi in Stratford. 167

the town in 1660, to fill the place which Mr. Peat had resigned
and a part of the instructions given him, besides ringing the
bell, were these: "And also to watch over the disorderly-
persons in the meeting and use his discretion in striking any
person whom he finds so disorderly." In this they had con-
ferred two offices upon him, for in November the year before
the town appointed Henry Wakelee to " watch over the
youths or any disorderly carriages in the time of public exer-
cises on the Lord's day or other times and see that they
behave themselves comely, and note any disorderly persons
by such raps or blows as he in his discretion shall see meet."

In 1666, Hugh Griffin was appointed to oversee the
youth in the gallery or without doors," and if any did con-
duct disorderly he was to report the same " to the parents
and masters;" and the next year Esbon Wakeman was
appointed to this difficult office.

In December, 1678, when they had commenced to build
a new meeting house Thomas Jefery was chosen to keep
order in the time of public service.

The bell spoken of above was in use in 1660, but how
much earlier is not known. It is said to have been the first
church bell in the State, and must have been brought from
England, since it could not have been made at that day in this
country. It would be an item of history of much interest
and some curiosity to know how it was secured and when
brought here.

Progress in the Settlement of the Toiunship.

After the settlement of the right to the soil in the town
in 1659, and some satisfaction made to the Indians the next
year, the settlers of Stratford extended their work of division,
laying out and settlement of the township with, apparently,
new energy and enterprise. In view of this a town meeting
was called and the following was a part of its doing :

"Jan. 3, 1661. It was voted that all the inhabitants shall
have liberty to take up a whole division of land in the woods
for planting land anywhere within the bounds of Stratford
where he can find fit land, provided it be not within two miles

i68 History of Stratford.

of the town, and also all such who do take up land in this
way are prohibited from making it their dwelling place, but
by the consent of the town ; and they have chosen by a vote
Philip Groves, William Curtis and Joseph Judson to lay it
out unto particular men according as they desire it."

It is probable that at this time there were no families
residing two miles from the village of Stratford, in the town,
unless it was at Farmill river, and it is quite uncertain if any
were there. The hop garden had been cultivated in that
vicinity but probably by persons residing in the village.

Neither were there any residents at Pequannock, or
Stratford land on the west side of the Pequannock river. A
family or two were residing probably at the mill at what is
now the east end of Old Mill Green, and also at the tide mill
at the Eagle's Nest, or as it was frequently called in those
days, Old Squaws. There may have been, also, a few families
residing out of the village a short distance north or upon
Clapboard Oak Hill, but it is quite doubtful ; yet within
eight or nine years after 1661, the residences beyond two
miles from the village had become quite numerous.

In January, 1664, the town voted that the " land between
Pequannock river and, the bounds between Fairfield and
Stratford shall be laid out by division to the inhabitants of
the town, fronting on the country highway." This highway
was on the line, now Park avenue and the road up Toilsome
Hill; and it is said "the lots to run three or four miles ;"
that is, extend along the road northward that distance.
Previous to this there had been many pieces of land laid out
to different men in the Pequannock field which lay south of
Golden Hill, there having been a fence made along the
boundary line, and hence the above division was largely if
not wholly northward of what is now Fairfield avenue.
Parcels of land had been laid to a number of individuals
before 1661, at Oronoke and at Farmill river, but very few if
any residences had been erected upon them.

The town having had considerable prosperity, and hav-
ing made good progress as to the laying out and clearing up
land, and establishing additional settlers, turned its attention
to the needs of the Church, in the winter of 1665-6.

First Church in Stratford. 169

" March 5, 1665-5. The town being together at a lawful meeting, propounded
whether or no the town will lay out a house lot out of the sequestered land, and
fence it and build a comfortable house jipon it and lay a considerable quantity of
meadow and upland to it, as need shall require, for the use of the ministry to
continue for ever for that end and use ; and this was the vote of the town that it
should be so performed."

An entry, afterwards erased, adds "there was a clear
vote, for there was not one blink, yet a considerable part of
the town would not vote, not that they were against the min-
istry but the ambiguousness of the vote."

Since Mr. Blakeman had his house and land, which he
had possessed more than twenty years, this vote could have
no purpose but that of obtaining another minister, although
as yet they had not voted to secure one.

This parsonage lot was taken out of the highway or
public green at the southeast corner of Watchhouse Hill,
near the site afterwards of the second meeting house.

The Rev. Adam Blakeman had served this church from
its settlement here in 1639, until the end of the year 1665 — a
pastorate of 26 years — without intermission or failure of
health, apparently, unless just at the last, and without diffi-
culty or trouble in his office. At this time the town saw fit
to move in the direction of relief to their aged minister and
a more ample supply of their needs as a parish or society.
It was the movement of the town and not the Church, and
hence the following vote :

" April 20, 1665. At a lawful meeting the town did consider the giving Mr.
Chauncey a call to help Mr. Blackman in the ministry for a year ; and they
agreed by vote. The word given was to draw to the west side of the meeting
house, and it was clearly manifest to be the major part to give him a call for a
year."

There is no evidence that he had been in the place betore
this vote, or that anything had been done previously to
secure any other man as a supply. Mr. Chauncey was
obtained and after about two months we find another record :

"June I, 1666. At a lawful town meeting, the inhabitants being generally
present, a paper was offered containing divers propositions to Mr. Israel Chauncy
in order to a mutual agreement for his settling amongst us in Stratford ; the paper
being dated with this present meeting. June i, 1666. It was voted and agreed
that the said paper should by the townsmen of Stratford be subscribed in the
name of the town and presented to Mr. Chauncy."

I/O History of Stratford.

This proceeding was in perfect harmony with the prac-
tice of other towns at that time, for the town employed and
paid the ministers. If the records of this Church were pre-
served, we should find a vote by it, on the question of settling
a pastor but not as to hiring him as a supply.

The paper addressed to Mr, Chauncey by the town,
signed by the selectmen, is as follows;'

"Mr. Chancy: We, a Christian people, by the providence of God settled
together in this plantation of Stratford, judging it our duty, as from the command
of God, so from our own necessary spiritual and eternal good, to endeavor after,
maintain and uphold a minister orthodox in doctrine and practice that the word
of life and salvation may be held forth unto us, and all the ordinance of God dis-
pensed among us : and whereas you have been some time amongst us, we
accounting it reasonable, very necessary, and equal that some mutual agreement
be made in a Christian way between you and us, we hereupon think to propound
to you for your settling and continuing with us as foUoweth. We desire that you
would perform the work of a minister of the gospel unto us in the preaching of
the word and administering of the sacraments. More particularly we desire if all
they that profess faith and obedience to the rules of Christ, not scandalous in life,
and do present themselves in owning the Covenant, when they have given them-
selves unto the Lord in baptism, may be admitted and accounted members of the
church, and under the care and discipline thereof as other members, and have
their children baptized. Notwithstanding we desire not that any thus admitted
may approach unto the Lord's Table till on and by examination and due trial
they make testimony unto the judgment of Charity of their fitness thereunto.
Moreover as God owneth the infant children of believers of the Covenant of
Grace, neither doth exclude the same children when grown up from having their
standing in the Covenant while they do so walk as thej' do not reject it. God
owneth them and would not have the grace of His Covenant shortened or straight-
ened nor put them from under the dispensation of His grace, giving His ministers
a solemn charge to take care of and train up such as a part of their fiock : We
desiring also that the children of Church members may be accounted Church
members as well as their parents, and that they do not cease to be members by
being grown up, but that they do still continue in the Church successively until,
according to the rules of Christ, -they be cast out ; and that they are the subjects

'In the Woodbury History, i. iig, the date of this paper is given as i66g,
whereas on the town record it is plainly written as here rendered, 1666. But
what is still more surprising is that this paper is used in that work to prove that
the Stratford Church did not practice the Halfway Covenant, yet that was the very
one paiticiilar thing it bound Mr. Chauncey to do. The labored effort made in that
book to show that Stratford Church had a very wicked feud between 1666 and
1670, would have been commendable, if the author had possessed genius enough
to have known or comprehended what the real questions of division were, but as
it was, nothing is left to us but simple astonishment.

First ChurcJi in Stratford. lyi

of Church discipline even as other members, and they should have their children

baptized, notwithstanding their present unfitness for partaking of the Lord's

Supper.

And further we assure 3'ou that without the least suspicion you may credit us

that upon your accepting said propositions and granting them unto us we shall,

according to our abilities, contribute to your comfortable subsistence amongst us.

Expecting an answer from you in time convenient (we) " Subscribe " in the name

of the town.

Thomas Fayrechilde,
Joseph Judson,
. Henry Wakelyn,
Thomas Uffoot."

"This is a true copy taken out of the original and compared this 25th June,
1666, by me. John Minor, Reconiery

It may be observed that this proposition to Mr. Chauncey
was made after he had been hired two months and five days ;
that, by town vote — apparently without dissent — it was
ordered to be signed by the selecttnen and presented to him ;
and that it stated plainly the methods of church work and
discipline which would be expected of him; and upon this
Mr. Chauncey was settled in the town and church as pastor.

The letter shows definitely that the church practiced the
Half-way Covenant and intended so to practice. This
method of discipline arose thus: The Puritans in England
had adopted the principle not to baptize children unless one
or both of the parents were members of the church. Soon
after settlement at Windsor, Conn., parents were found there
who were not members of that church, but were members of
the Episcopal Church in England, who desired to have their
children baptized here since they could not go to England
for it. This question came before the court at Hartford, and
finally the practice was adopted to allow persons who were
not members of these churches or any others, to have their
children baptized upon certain conditions. These were, as
stated in this paper to Mr. Chauncey, " not scandalous in life,"
and who believed the doctrines of these churches — " professed
faith and obedience to the rules of Christ." Such parents
and their children were taken under the " watch and care of the
church," and the children were baptized ; but the parents
were not to partake of the Coinmunion. Two sacraments

172 History of Stratford.

were acknowledged — Baptism and the Lord's Supper, and as
in this covenant one only was included, the church relation
was expressed by the words " Half-way Covenant." In this
relation all that was prohibited from such persons was the
Lord's Supper, as is evident from the following, in this paper
from the parish to Mr. Chauncey, viz: " Notwithstanding we
desire not that any thus admitted may approach unto the
Lord's Table till on and by examination and due trial they
make testimony unto the judgment of Charity of their fitness
thereto." That is, until by examination and a knowledge of
their lives it should be evident that they were proper persons
to come to the Lord's Table.

This Half-way Covenant method ot membership, then,
was in practice and had been for years in the Stratford
church when Mr. Chauncey came here, and the whole expres-
sion of the church and the town so far as appears in any
record or intimation, was to have it continued.

Soon after Mr. Chauncey was settled as pastor a question
of difference arose in his parish which eventuated in the for-
mation of a second church in the town and that church,
largely, removed afterwards and settled at Woodbury. The
inquiry is, w^hat were the questions which caused the division
and trouble? Evidently these, and only these, that the Half-
way Covenant members should be allowed to come to the
Lord's Table, and that the minister alone should examine the
candidates, and receive them into the church. The church
hitherto refused these. A small minority now demanded
them. The minority were all members in Half-way Cove-
nant, and hence were denied but one privilege, and therefore
could complain of nothing else, for in their letter to Mr.
Chauncey and the Church they say, speaking of what God
had done for them,^ "and hath given us an interest in himself
to be our God, and taken us to be his own, giving us his own
discipline and ordinances for our spiritual and eternal good,
and owning us hath given us equal right with yourselves in
all his ordinances."

^ See Woodbury History, vol. i, 115-118.

First CIntrcJi in Stratford. 173

This letter not being answered as the parties desired,
they wrote another in which they say :*

" Whereas we have formerly made known our minds
unto you in writing, as concerning our desire of communion
in all God's ordinances with you, holding forth unto you by
•way of preface, our right unto them, from the free grace of
God owning us externally sealing the privileges of the Cove-

* The Minority's First Letter.
"To Mr. Chancy and the rest of the Church at Stratford.

" Loving brethren and friends, God hy his good providence having brought us
hither, who are of his church and people, and separated us from the world, and of
his free and abundant grace hath taken us and our seed into covenant with him-
self and with his church and people, and hath given us an interest in himself to be
our God, and taken us to be bis own, giving us his own discipline and ordinances
for our spiritual and eternal good, and owning us hath given us equal right with
yourselves in all his ordinances, his providence also having setled us together in
this plantation that we might jointly together worshipp him in all his ordinances,
and that we should be mutuall helpers of one another in our Christian race.
These few lines are to informe you that wee whose names are underwritten doo
declare to you our earnest desire to enjoy communion in all God's ordinances
with you, that we may together worshipp him according to his holy will ; desiring
also that wee and our posterity may be owned as immediate members of the
Church of Christ by you ; as Christ owneth us and ours by his own institution,
taking us into covenant, and solemnly setting his own seal upon us. We further
declare, that owning it to be our duty, and hoping it to be our desire to account
you our best friends, who shall use means to convince us wherein we have sinned,
and bring us to the sight of our evils ; we desire that if any man being converted
according to God's rules, and do not hold forth repentance, then no such person
so remaining may be admitted to communion, till he hold forth repentance. And
whereas there hath beene difference about the calling of Mr. Chancy, and several!
of us have declared our objections against his setling amongst us till those objec-
tions were answered, and we judge they never were unto satisfaction ; yet if you
shall see cause to answer our earnest and reall desires in the premises, as we
hope you will, wee shall pass by what hath been, and endeavor lovingly to close
together and walke together according to the rules of God's holy word, hoping
and desiring you will so farr respect us as to give us an answer hereunto in writ-
ing as soon as you conveniently can.

Yours in all due respects and desireous of unity according to the rules ot
Christ.

January 16, 1665-6.

Joseph Judson, John Minor,
Richard Butler, James Blackman,
David Mitchell, Samuel Sherman,
Henry Wakelyn, Daniel Titterton."
Woodbury History, i. 115.

174 History of Stratford.

nant unto us." Thus, clearly, they state the question to be
" communion in all God's ordinances with you." In the second
letter they state another point, not introduced in the first,
thus :

"And if anything did on our part lie in the way, have
seriously appointed us a time for examining of us in respect
of our faith and knowledge : accounting it requisite that the
Minister may take particular knowledge of all those that are
to have Communion in the whole worship of God: And
herein (^to deal plainly) that nothing may hereafter be laid as
a block in our way, we desire that in this examination by the
Minister or Ministers and Elder we may issue in their ques-
tioning and examining only."*

^ The Minority'' s Second Letter.
"Whereas we have formerly made known our mindes unto j'ou in writing, as
concerning our desire of communion in all God's ordinances with you; holding
forth unto you by way of preface, our right unto them, from the free grace of God
owning us and externally sealing the privileges of y'* Covenant unto us ; have also
declared our mindes concerning such letts as may hinder us from proceeding
unto such attaynments mentioned in some clauses thereof; and comeing together
to know how you stood affected to our desires, hoped you might have seen good
soe farr to have betrusted those y' were to declare your rcinde unto us as in con-
feering with us to take farther knowledge of our desire propounded ; and to putt
us in a way of farther proceeding ; should have bin glad soe farr to have bin ten-
der by you that they might have took it into consideration. And if anything did
on our part lye in y^ way, have seriously appointed us a time for examining of us
in respect of our fayth and knowledge: Accounting it requisite y' y® Minister
may take particular knowledge of all those y' are to have communion in the
whole worshipp of God ; And herein (to ^&?i\ plainly) y* nothing may hereafter bee
laid as a block in our way; we desire that in this examination by y" Minister or
Ministers and Elder wee may issue in their questioning and examining only.
And whereas we have openly, solemnly, wholly and only ingaged ourselves to be
the Lord's, who hath graciously taken us into Covenant with himself and his
faithful people ; we desire, y' in the owning hereof, wee may not be further
trouble with any imposition of that nature. The exercise of your tenderness unto
us wee cannot but hope for, according as you are allowed. Ro. 14:1.

February gth, 1665-6.

Joseph Judson, John Minor,

Richard Butler, James Blackman,

David Mitchell, Samuel Sherman,

Henry Wakelyn, Daniel Titterton."
Woodbury History, i. 116.

First CluircJi in Stratford. 175

Here they make a condition or demand, that in owning
the Covenant the minister or ministers and elder shall be the
only parties admitted to the examination. They go further
and with scorn stigmatize the examination before the Church,
which was the custom then, an "imposition," thus:

"And whereas we have openly, solemnly, wholly and
only engaged ourselves to be the Lord's, who hath graciously
taken us into Covenant with himself and Jiis faithful people;
we desire that in the owning hereof, we may not be further
troubled with anv imposition of that nature."^

These letters were written in January, 1665-6, a short
time after Mr. Chauncey's settlement, and to them a reply
was sent the next April which shows that the particular
questions at issue were the communion and examination of
candidates by the minister alone:

" Whereas we received from 3'ou two writings, the sum
of both which was to hold forth your earnest desire as to
communion in all the ordinances of Christ with us. These are
to give you to understand that our apprehension concerning
the order of discipline is the same that we have formerly
manifested it to be, both by our practice and answer to your
proposals. And whereas you apprehend you have equal
right with ourselves in all the ordinances of Christ in this
place, these may certify you at present that we are of a
different apprehension from you in that matter.""

* The italics are in tlie original.

" " Church Ansiver to the Men."

" Neighbors, whereas wee received from you two writings the sum of both
which was to hold forth your earnest desire as to communion in all the ordinances
of Christ with us. These are to give you to understand that our apprehension
concerning the order of discipline is ilie same that we have formerly manifested
it to bee, both by our practice, and answer to your proposalls. And whereas you
apprehend you have equal! right wiih ourselves in all the ordinances of Clirist in
this place, these may certifie you at present that we are of a different apprehension
from you in that matter. And whereas you desire that your posterity may: etc
wee would put you in mind that as yet the matter is in controversie among the
learned and godly. Likewise whereas you seem to intimate in the close of your
first page that you have taken offence at our late proceedings, but as you say upon
the granting of ihe premises are willing to pass it by ; we return no more at pres-

176 History of Stratford.

The minority mention only one condition as ground of
reception, viz: that of repentance, in their first letter, but
claim membership by virtue of birth-right: "desiring also
that wee and our posterity may be owned as immediate
members of the Church of Christ by you."

Hence their views of membership were those, very
nearly, of the Episcopal Church, except as to confirmation,
and this they doubtless would have accepted very readily at
the hands of a Bishop.

The Rev. Adam Blakeman died somewhere between
April, 1665, and the next January, and hence Mr. Israel
Chauncey was installed that year as pastor, and on Dec. 18,
1666, by town vote, his salary was fixed at sixty pounds per
annum.

At the same time the town voted to divide the parsonage
lot which had been appropriated according to a previous vote

ent but this, viz: wee hope if you had sufficient ground so to doo, the godl)' and
learned would have spied it out, and have endeavored to convince us of our evills
herein. -Lastly, whereas in your latter page you prescribe the way wherein 3'ou
desired to be attended : viz: you account it requisite: etc: To which we answer
in the words of Paul in another case, wee have no such custom nor the churches
of Christ with whom we hold communion, and moreover it is practised you know
by those whose principles in discipline are farr different from ours. And truly
neighbours, as it relates to your case, (notwithstanding wee gladly and heartily
desire ye increase and enlargement of y*" Church when it may be attained in a
rulable and satisfactor}' way yet) we must plainly tell you that we cannot at pres-
ent see how it will stand with the glory of God, the peace of y^ Church and our
and your mutuall edification (which ought to bee deare unto us, and earnestly
sought by us) for you t; embody with us in this society: The Apostle Paule
exhorts the Corinthians, and so all that walk together in church fellowship: i
Romans 10, to avoid divisions and to be perfectly joined together in the same
mind and in the same judgment, otherwise it is not likely we should keepe the
unity of the spirit in the bond of peace, to which we are exhorted, Eph. 4:3. And
notwithstanding wee give this answer in generall to you all that were concerned
in the pages presented to us ; yet you may easily imagine that we have particular
exertions as it relates to particular persons whereof we find that we are thereunto
called, wee shall manage and desire satisfaction in before they are admitted to
communion in all the ordinances.

April 16, 1666.

This is a true Coppe of )'* answer

given unto us as it was tryed by both papers.

Church Answer to the men."

Woodbury History, i. 117.

First CJiurch in Stratford. lyy

and to give "one quarter part of it to Mr. Chauncey and a
quarter part of it to Mr. Peter Bulkley or any other man by
that party obtained that now endeavors for Mr. Bulkley."

This is the first" record that indicates a division of effort,
in the form of another or second church ; but the further
statement of the vote at this time shows that the matter had
matured to a large degree, for it says:

" And that which shall be laid out to Mr. Chauncy, shall
by him be improved as his during his life or continuance in
Stratford, and in case of removal the said land is to return to

the town again It is also agreed in case Mr. Bulkley

or any other minister be obtained, he shall have, hold and
enjoy his part in every respect as Mr. Chauncy doth.

" It is further agreed respecting a house lot, the reserved
land for that purpose shall be equally divided into two lots
and Mr. Chauncy is to have his choice which of the two he
will please to have."

Upon this agreement of the two parties application was
made to the General Court to sanction the division, if there
was nothing in the law against it ; and the Court granted the
request, and directed that " from henceforth they shall all
jointly make payment of their proportions towards the main-
tenance of Mr. Chauncy till there be another minister at
Stratford there cohabiting."

During the year 1667 the division made further progress,
but as far as any records show took no new form, no violent
conflict, other than that given above ; and the representations
other than here given seem wholly gratuitous. There was a
division of sentiment as to church relations and privileges,
brought out upon the settlement of Mr. Chauncey and at the
decease of their former minister, and it took the form of a
separate church within one year, but no legal organization
was secured. Had there been any way for the dissenting
party to have connected themselves with the Episcopal
Church there can be no doubt but they would have done so,
for their views were in accord with that Church, and it is
probable that something of these views, after this discussion.

178 History of Stratford.

remained in the community until 1706, when they began to
secure services by the Episcopal Church.

The matter of dissention having been brought before
the General Court, the advice of that body was rendered,
probably, -in the latter part of the year 1667, and on March 27,
1668, at a lawful town meeting the advice was " in every
particular voted and accepted," and ordered recorded. It
had reference not onl}' to Church matters but also to civil
rights and liberties ; and occurring as it did directly after the
union of the New Haven and Connecticut Colonies, it was of
importance to the whole united Colony.

Early in the year 1668, the minority engaged Mr. Zecha-
riah Walker of Jamaica, L. I., to preach to them ; and as Mr.
Israel Chauncey had signed a paper accepting the land prof-
fered by the town upon the conditions stipulated; Mr. Walker
also signed a like agreement and acceptance.

These facts placed the two ministers and their parties on
equal rights and privileges in law and worship ; but the}"
were very differently situated as to advantages, for the
minority had no organization and no meeting house.

The next trouble arose from the application of Mr.
Walker and his adherents, for the use of the meeting house
during some portion of each Sabbath day, as a place of wor-
ship, under the proposition that the two congregations should
use the same house, but meet at different hours on the same
day. This created more division and excited feeling, appar-
ently, than had been experienced before, for the old congre-
gation declined to grant the request, and that apparently by
a large majority.

In accordance with the recommendation of the Court, a
complete list of the proprietors of the town was made, on the
27th of March, 1668, just in the midst of these difficulties, and
by it and Mr. Walker's report of the organization of his
church the relative strength of the parties may be seen.

TJic Inhabitants of Stratford in 1668.

"A list of the Inhabitants of Stratford, drawn up by the townsmen and
recorded by order from the Govenor and Mr. Jones and Mr. Stowe 27th March,
1668, as foUoweth and diligently recorded by order from the present townsmen
this 28th March, 1668:

Proprietors of Stratford.

1 79

I. Mr. [Samuel] Sherman.
■2. Mr. [Thomas] Fairchild.

3. Mr. [Israel] Chauncey.

4. Mr. [Zcch.] Walker.

5. Lieut. Wm. Curtis.

6. Elder [Philip] Graves.

7. Ensign Jos. Judson.

8. John Birdseye, Sen'.
Q. John Minor.

10. Nath' Porter.

11. John Birdseye. Jun^

12. Henry Wakeiyn.

13. Jehiel Preston.

14. Mr. Nicholas Knell.

15. John Brinsmayd, Sen"'.

16. Richard Butler.

17. Benjamin Peak.

18. John Curtis.

19. John Peck, Jr.

20. Timothy Wilcockson.

21. Joseph Bearsiye

22. Israel Curtis.

23. Arthur Bostick.

24. Caleb Nichols.

25. John Beach.

26. John Wells.

27. James Blackman.

28. John Pickett, Jr.

29. Robert Lane.

30. John Hull.

31. Jabez Harger.

32. Daniel Titterton.

33. Robert Rose.

34. Robert Clark.

35. John Wilcockson.

36. Hugh Griffin.

37. Richard Hurd.

38. Edward Hinman.

39. John Thompson, Sen''.

40. John Thompson, Jr.

41. Moses Wheeler.

42. Francis Hall.

43. Esbon Wakeman.

44. Samuel Sherman.

45. Joseph Hawley.

46. Adam Hurd.

47. Henry Tomlinson.

48. Richard Boothe.

49.
50.
51-
52.
53-
54-
55-
56.
57-
58.
59-
60.
61.
.62.
63.
64.

65.
66.
67.
68.
69.
70.

71-
72.

73.
74.
75-
76.

77-

78.

79-
80.

81.
82.
83.
84.

85-
86.
87.
88.

Outlivers^
i. e. out
of the
village.

John Hurd, Jr.
Isaac Nichols.
Serg*. Jeremie Judson.
Samuel Bearslye.
John Pickett, Sen'.
Thomas Uffoot.
James Clark.
John Peacock.
John Hurd, Sen'.
Mr. David Mitchell.
Stephen Burritt.
Samuel Blackman.
John Bearslye.
Samuel Stiles.
Ephraim Stiles.
Tho^ Sherwood's children.
Thomas Wells.
John Wheeler,
Obadiah Wheeler,
Hope Washburn,
Theophilus Sherman,
Matt. Sherman,
Admitted freeholders Jan. i, 1668.
Thomas Kimberly.
Samuel Fairchild.
Tho^ Fairchild, Jr.
John Brinsmade, Jr.
Daniel Bearslye.
Jonathan Curtis.
John Judson.

Were by the townsmen ordered
to be recorded Outlivers,
March 3, i6f|.
Samuel Gregory.
James Pickett.
Benjamin Beach.
John Bostick.
Henry Summers.
Jonas Tomlinson.
Dan'. Brinsmade.
John Burritt.

Widow Bearsley wife of Thomas B.
Mrs. [Adam] Blackman.
Widow Titterton.

Widow Bearslye, wife of William,
half proprietor of house lot
and accommodations."

i8o History of Stratford.

This list gives 85 men, and if all were allowed to vote in
a Society meeting, then the list includes both parties as to
legal votes.

In the Woodbury History is an account given by the
Rev. Mr. Walker of the organization of his Church at Strat-
ford, May I, 1670, and according to it the Covenant was taken
that day by 20 persons, to whom 7 were added in a few days,
making 27 in all, and omitting Mr, Walker himself, 26. Of
the whole number 7 were not inhabitants, and could not vote
in town meeting. Hence the number of Mr. Walker's voters
to those opposed was 19 to 65.

Two years Mr. Walker and his people continued their
work in Stratford under great difficulties, when the project
of colonization to Woodbury arose and was soon after effected
in .a very commendable and successful manner. When set-
tled in Woodbury they adopted the Halfway Covenant sys-
tem ot church relations and government, the same as the
Stratford Church had pursued, probably, all the years of its
existence before 1670, and which it followed, probably, about
one hundred years later.

CHAPTER IX.

PROGRESS AMIDST DIFFICULTIES.

URING the years from 1650 to 1670, great
1-^ changes took place in the town of Stratford.
f The purchasing of the lands from the Indians
and the consequent proposition for extend-
ing the settlement; the decease of several
prominent men and the incoming of new
settlers; the differences which arose as to
the privileges of the halfway covenant
church members, resulting in the organiza.
tion of a second society for public wor-
ship; the union of Connecticut and New
Haven Colonies, and the taking of New
York from the Dutch ; — all these had placed
the community upon a new stage of social,
religious and civil life.
The territory opened for settlement by paying the In-
dians for various tracts of land extended north into what is
now Huntington and Trumbull, and west to Fairfield bounds.
Different parties had become interested in these purchases
by paying the Indians, in behalf of the town, and they desired
to secure the return of their money by the division and sale
of the land to old and new settlers, and this awakened a spirit
of enterprise and progress to the extent that new settlers
were not only made welcome but invited to come in, and the
territory seemed so large that a proposition was made in 1670,
and a petition presented to the General Court, to organize a
separate plantation at Farmill river within the bounds of
Stratford.'

' "October, 1670. Whereas, Mr. Sherman hath motioned to this Court in the
behalf of some of the inhabitants of Stratford, that they might have liberty and
13

1 82 History of Stratford.

The Stratford company was organized at Wethersfield
and Hartford in the beginning of the year 1639, and tradition
says it contained fifteen or seventeen families. They began
the settlement that Spring at what was afterwards called the
harbor, in Stratford village, and in the Autumn of that year
military drill was established under the command of Francis
Nichols, acting as captain.

The land records as they now exist were commenced,
probably, in 1652, and all dates prior to that were entered at
that time or later. It is quite doubtful as to there having
been any records in this town previous to that date, but if
there were they have been lost or destroyed.

The law providing for such records and a town clerk to
keep them was enacted in 1639, and provided such penalties
as to make it hazardous for any town to neglect the matter
twelve years, as must have been the case if Stratford made
none but those now possessed.

The record of each proprietor's surveyed land, being
entered in 1652, there are two forms of expression used which
designate the first proprietors from those who came after. Of
the first of these it is said he " hath a home lot," but of the
second it is said, " hath purchased a home lot." Hence when
the town clerk recorded his own lot, probably in 1652, he
said : "Joseph Hawley hath purchased of Richard Mills, a
home lot, 2 acres, bounded with the street on the east, John
Blakeman west, Adam Hurd on the south, and a highway
north." In this case Mr. Hawley appears to have purchased
the whole Right of Mr. Mills as well as the home lot.

This was the only form of land records in the early
settlement of the place.

Besides the above evidence as to the first families, nearly

encouragement to erect a plantation at or near a river called the Farmill river,
and the lands adjacent, this Court refers the consideration of thi« motion to Capt.
Nathan Gold, Mr. James Bishop, Mr. Thomas Fitch, and Mr. John Hollv, and
they are desired and appointed to view the said lands, and to meet sometime in
November next, to consider of the aforesaid motion, and to labor to work a com-
pliance between those two parties in Stratford ; and if their endeavors prove
unsuccessful then they are desired and ordered to make return to the Court in
May next what they judge expedient to be attended in the case." Col. Rec, ii. 141.

Emigration to Stratford. 183

all other early settlers in this town are found residing- else-
where in the year 1639. In a previous part of this book, all
settlers before 165 1 are spoken of as first settlers, but those
included more than the first company formed at Wethersfield.

Most of these seventeen families had been in America
four or five years, looking for a final location as a home for
life, and it must have afforded a sense of rest and satis-
faction when they planted themselves on the western shore of
the great river, then known only as the Pootatuck, as their
final earthly home. And yet it was not like home to them,
but as unlike as was possible to be.

Apparently they had all left many friends and kindred
whose faces they would have been glad to have seen after these
several years of wandering in the new world instead of stop-
ping among the Indians. Some of them, if not all had relin-
quished comfortable homes and possessions, but when landed
at Stratford they had not a shelter nor a covering for the
night, probably, unless they accepted hospitality in the
Indian wigwams, of which there is no tradition. They ma}^
have sent on a part of their company early in the Spring to
prepare some houses or places for temporary dwelling, but
the compan)'^ was organized so late in the winter that there
was but little time before the important work of planting de-
manded all their labor and skill, and therefore but small
preparations could have been made, however diligent and
energetic their efforts.

And all this, for what? To escape religious oppression.
Much has been written with a purpose to indicfite that that
oppression was of little consequence — largely imaginary, and
soon forgotten, but no unprejudiced mind can read a tenth
part of the historical proof of the trerribleness of that op-
pression without a shudder of horror and wonder.

But in their minds at least there must have been a great
pressure, to drive them 3000 miles across a mighty ocean,
with families of children, into a wilderness country such as
they knew this was. If the emigrating companies had con-
sisted only of men, as in the recent exodus to California in
1849, the case would have been very different and might havr^
been stimulated solely for gain.

1 84

History of Stratford.

Fortunately, however, for the world, whatever the sad or
hopeful experiences through which they had previously
passed, they came, and through them the nations have been
and are honored.

The First Families of Stratford, Connecticut.

1 Rev. Adam Blahetnau.

2 Williafu JSeardsley,

3 William Willcoxson,

4 Michard Harvey.

5 JEli^ahetJi Cnrtiss,

6 Thomas Fairchild,

7 PJiilip Groves.

8 John Murd.

9 Michard Mills.

1 0 William Judson,

11 Francis Nichols.

12 John Feat.

13 Fobert Seahrook.

14 Thomas Sherivood.

15 William Croolzer.

16 William Quemhy.

17 Arthur Bostivick.

It is possible that this list should be varied a little, but
from the best light after very close study, it seems to be
correct.

There were no settlers here in 1638, as supposed by
Dr. Trumbull.

These seventeen families consisted of the following
persons :

1 Rev. Adam Blakeman, his wife and six children,

2 William Beardsley, his wife and four young children,

3 Wiliam Willcoxson, his wife and three young children,

4 Richard Harvey and his wife,

5 Widow Elizabeth Curtiss and two sons, young men,

6 Thomas Fairchild and his young wife,

7 Philip Groves and wife,

8 John Hurd, probably his wife and son Adam,

9 Richard Mills, his wife, sister of Caleb Nichols, and son Samuel,

10 William Judson, his wife and three sons.

11 Francis Nichols and his three sons,

12 John Peat, his wife and two children,

13 Robert Seabrook, probably no wife,

14 Thomas Sherwood, his wife and six children,

15 William Crooker and wife, perhaps children,

16 William Quemby, his wife, two children, perhaps others,

17 Arthur Bostwick, probably his wife and one son.

0 persons.
6 persons.
5 persons.

2 persons.

3 persons.
2 persons.

2 persons.

3 persons.

3 persons.
5 persons.

4 persons.
4 persons.

1 person.
8 persons.

2 persons.
4 persons.

3 persons.

Richard Mills.

.2
i 2

Thomas Sherwood / / STRATFOED VILLAGE IN 1639,
Containing only Seventeen Families.

1 86 History of Stratford.

This was the company that came from VVethersfield
through the wilderness to Stratford on foot and horseback,
and tradition says, forded the Housatonic river somewhere
above Stratford village. What few articles of household
goods, if any, which were too heavy to bring on horseback
were doubtless sent around by water.

Their encampment on the plain — then an Indian field —
near the harbor must have been picturesque as compared
with the present. Possibly the}^ had some tents for tempo-
rary shelter and then built themselves wigwams or log houses.
What they suffered in the chilly Spring winds and rains has
not been recorded although, no doubt, it was often repeated
to their successors for many years following.

Probably new planters came the next year; and there-
after, nearly every year, until 1675. In 1650 there were about
fifty families in the town, several others having come and
removed.

These families were all, probably communicants in the
English or Episcopal Church when they left their native
land, and brought their certificates as such, with them to
America. In the list of the ship that brought three families
that settled in Stratford — William Beardsley, William Will-
coxson and Richard Harvie, it is said : "the parties have cer-
tificates from the minister of St. Albans in Hertfordshire, and
attestations from the justice of the peace according to the
Lord's order.'' ^ These certificates as communicants, and at-
testations of loyalty — they having taken the oath of loyalty —
by the justice, were a prerequisite to the privilege of emigra-
tion. The Rev. Adam Blakeman himself was not only a com-
municant, but a regularly ordained minister of the English
Church in good standing, having been suspended from officiat-
ing as a clergyman, for nonconforutity to a few particular
forms of service, then not in the prayer-book. One of these
was the requirement that persons while partaking of the sac-
rament should be in a kneeling position. This kneeling was
the form of the Roman Catholic Church in which they taught

" Page 122 of this book.

Ma fly Changes. 187

the " Worshiping of the Host." This form, the Puritans
thousj^-ht, was idolatry, and therefore refused to observe it.

There were no Presbyterians in Stratford, not even in
1708, when the Saybrook Platform was adopted, so far as any
indications set forth.

When, therefore, these first families reached Stratford
they organized themselves into a Church with the recogni-
tion of neighboring Churches, and called themselves, as did
their neighbors also, "a Church of Christ," and these bodies
worshiping together as congregations separate from each
other, were after about thirty years, in 1669, styled " Congre-
gational Churches." *

Richard Booth is not included as one of the first com-
pany, because the indications are that he came with his
brother-in-law, Joseph Hawley, who came and purchased
his first land here about 1650.

William Burritt seems not to have been among the first
settlers, in 1639.

Richard Butler, the brother of William, of Hartford, as
given on page 108, in this book, lived and died at Hartford,
and the Richard Butler of Stratford, was here probably
several years before 165 1, and was another person than
Richard of Hartford.

John Birdse3'e, in all probability, did not come to Strat-
ford until 1649, as stated in Barber's Historical Collections,
since he did not become a land holder here until 1654.

The list of deaths and removals between 1650 and 1670,
is as follows, nearly, there having been some deaths, doubt-
less, before 1650, of which there are no records.

Francis Nichols, William Burritt, John Alsop and Wil-
liam Willcoxson died in 1650 and 165 1. Henry Gregory died
in 1655, Thomas Sherwood, Sen., in 1655, Robert Coe, Jr., in
1659, William Beardsley in 1660, John Wells, Sen., in 1660 or
1661, Joshua Judson, in 1661. Thomas Uffoot removed to
Milford and died in 1660; William Judson removed to New
Haven and died in 1662. The Rev. Adam Blakeman died in
1665; Samuel Blakeman died in 1668; Thomas Fairchild,

^ Col. Rec, ii, ioq.

1 88 History of Stratford.

Sen., and John Peacock, Hugh Griffin and his wife Dorothy-
Griffin, died in 1670.

Edmund Harvey from Milford, resided a short time in
Stratford and removed to Fairfield, where he died in 1648.
John Pettit, probably from Roxbur}-, Mass., was here about
165 1, removed to Fairfield, and he and his wife were deceased
in 1684, leaving children, Sarah, John and three younger.
Edward Higby was a resident here a short time about 1654,
and soon removed. John Reader, John Ferguson, William
Read, and John Blakeman, were here but soon removed.

Some sketches of new settlers will be found in the next
chapter of this book, the number being about 30 before 1680.

The difficulties which arose in the first church in Strat-
ford, in 1666, in regard to the privileges of the halfway cove-
nant members, resulted in the organization of a second eccle-
siastical society in 1668, and a second Church in March, 1670.

The question as to a second ecclesiastical society and
church was settled in a most generous and Christian manner
by the old society, which was a large majority of the voters
of the town, notwithstanding all that has been published to
the contrar3\

The law of the Colony did not allow an ecclesiastical
society to be organized in any plantation, except b}' permis-
sion of the General Court. When the difference of opinion
had continued in Stratford a little more than a year, the
voters of the town, being most of them members of or in
covenant with the old church, made a proposition for settle-
ment with the minority, or those who proposed a second
society, which was accepted, and was to take effect at once if
the General Court should approve it, and this they did
promptly."' It gave one fourth of the sequestered ministry

'" *' Dec. 18, 1666, Voted and agreed that there shall be (in case it be found no
w.iys contradictory to a Court order to have another minister here in Stratford) a
laying out of the sequestered land reserved for the ministry — viz : one-quarter part
of it to Mr. Chaunc}- and a quarter part of it to Mr. Peter Bulkley or any other
man by that party obtained that now endeavors for Mr. Bulkley ; and th.Tt which
shall be laid out to Mr. Chauncej' shall by him be improved as his during his life
or continuance in Stratford ; and in case of removal the said land is to return to
the town again ; provided ahv.ays that the town pay him for what it is bettered by

Reasons for a neiv Plantation. 189

land to Mr. Chauncey and the other fourth to the minister,
whoever he might be, — for one had not then been secured, —
of the second society, and that, too, when the voters of that
society numbered 19, and those of the old society 65.

All this was done by the parties interested, without any
governmental authority whatever.

The Woodbury History opens one of its chapters thus:

"The settlement of Woodbur}^ was the result of dilTer-
ence in religious opinions, among the inhabitants of Stratford.
It was ushered in by 'thunderings and lightnings, and earth-
quakes ecclesiastical.' "

There were no " thunderings and lightnings " nor
" earthquakes ecclesiastical," in the matter, except such as
may have occurred in Woodbury years after.

There were no ecclesiastical or General Court threaten-
ings or fulminations heard of in those days, for the whole
arrangement was completed by amicable vote in the town
meeting without any outside force or urgency whatever; and
was fully settled before Mr. Zecharia Walker preached a ser-
mon in Stratford.

The Woodbury History says Mr. Chauncey " was or-
dained in the independent mode," which means, if anything,
chat he rejected the advice and aid of the Association of Min-
isters, which was then the only ecclesiastical body known in
the Colony except the local churches. This statement is
wholly without foundation, as is shown by his own letter to
the minority, April 16, 1666, in these words: " We have no
such custom nor the churches of Christ zvitJi zvhoni ive hold
cojiununioii," thus showing that he held in highest estimation
his relation to the Association, which was the onl}- formal
communion of the " Churches of Christ" at that day.

his improvement, according as ye town and Mr. Chauncc)- shall agree, . . . and
in case of decease the town is to pay Mr. Chauncy, his heirs, what the whole ac-
commodation, together with the improvement shall be judged, at his decease.

It is further agreed on, in case Mr. Buckley or any other minister be obtained
he shall have, hold and enjoy his part in every respect the same as Mr. Chauncj-.

It is further agreed on that as respecting a houselot, the reserved land for that
purpose shall be equally divided into two lots, and Mr. Chauncy is to have his
choice which of the two he will please to have."

I go History of Stratford.

It is quite evident that after this arrangement had been
made and the minority had secured half of the ministerial
lands and the sanction of the Court to be a separate society,
that their demand to occupy the meeting house as well as the
old society some portion of Sunday, increased very decidedly
the difficulties and controversies in the town.

In the next March, 1668, the town "Voted and unani-
mously agreed on the advice presented to us by our Honored
Governor, the Worshipful Mr. Jones [an Assistant], and Mr.
Stone, and our respected friends, Mr. Jehu Burr and Mr.
John Burr, bearing date the 26th of March, 1668, for our
present and future direction, as to inhabitants and their privi-
leges (as also their explication of the first particular, sub-
scribed by the honored Governor and Mr. Jones), every
particular being particularly voted and agreed on, every par-
ticular was accepted and should be recorded.

John Minor, Recorder^

This advice, given' the day before this town meeting was
held, consisted of four items and an after explanation, the

^ Advice of the Governor and his Associates.

" I. That the present freeholders, dwelling upon or possessing allowed home
lots in propriety be allowed as free planters, and have the privilege of vote in all
town affairs ; and the present outlivers on propriety, have the like libert}' of vote
so far as may properly concern them in point of interest in town affairs, as choice
of constable and townsmen, &c., but not in granting of home lots and receiving
inhabitants, or the like where they are not concerned.

"2. That for the future none be admitted to privilege of vote as free planters
but such as shall be orderly admitted by the town's consent upon certificate and
testimony according to law.

'" 3. That the sons of settled and approved planters be not capable of vote in
town affairs until of lawful age and distinct proprietors and planters themselves.

"4. That no transient person or persons, admitted for habitation only or mere
tenantship be allowed the privilege of vote in the plantation until orderly approved
to be free planters by the town's consent.

" And whereas persons have built upon division land contrary to the town's
order, it is not our intent in any thing by us propounded to justify their so doing,
but leave the case to the town's consideration, to provide for their own good and
to add such penalty for the future to their above said confirmation thereof as they
shall see cause.

'■26ih March, 1668. The contents of this writing we present as our advice to

Regulations for Inhabitants.

191

whole established certain rules to settle the question of Ic^al
voters in town matters, and as proprietors in the townshij).
One of these had become an important question in view of
the voting in ecclesiastical or society matters, and the other
from the fact that some persons had settled on lands which
were not yet divided or if divided were not their own.

By these rules some persons were allowed, apparently,
to vote in ecclesiastical matters who could not vote in receiv-
ing inhabitants or disposing of land.

The practical illustration of these rules may be seen in
the following town acts :

" Nov. 22, 1667. Voted and agreed that Thomas Kimberly,
sen., may come and dwell in said town after the manner of a
sojourner."

" Feb. 5, 1671, William Roberts, by a certificate under
the townsmen's hands is ordered to be enrolled as an inhab-
itant."

" Whereas, John Wheeler hath let his accommodations in
Stratford, unto John Levens, and presenting his desire to ye
town this 1st January, 1674, that the said Levens be accepted,
presenting also a certificate of his blameless conversation
according to law ; The town voted and consented the same
day to his admittance as a tenant."

Soon after or about the time this advice of the Governor
and his associates was accepted, the second society secured

the inhabitants for their future settlement and peace, and to that end to be

confirmed by vote at their next town meeting.

John Wintlirop.
Wm. Jones,
Benjamin Stone,
Jeliu Burr,
John Burr.

'^ An explication added to the paper of advice, e^c.

"It is declared that the inhabitants of the Mill lots are to be accounted and

enrolled in the number of the freeholders and not to be looked upon as those who

are named outlivers, in the paper presented to the town ; and those that are of the

outlivers who have al/o other town proprietors are to be also looked upon and

esteemed freeholders.

John Winthrop.

March 27, 1668. William Jones.

IQ2 History of Stratford.

the services of Mr. Zecharia Walker as their preacher and
established regular services; and having no meeting house,
they applied to the first society for the use of their house
some part of each Sunday. This was the first house of wor-
ship which stood at the Harbor.

The request was rejected at first, and the division in the
community became greater than ever; but afterward it was
granted, and in 1669, still further granted.'

In May, 1669, one year later, the matter went to the
General Court by petition, and the Court requested that
" till October Court there may be liberty for Mr. Walker to
preach once in the day, as they have hitherto done by their
agreement, the Church allowing him full three hours between
the Church two meetings for the same ;'" and at the October
meeting of the Court the same recommendation was contin-
ued, but liberty given for Mr. Walker's people to provide
another place for meeting if it should be found necessary.

Connecticut and JVeif? Haven Colonies were united
in one by a new charter granted by King Charles II. dated
April 23, 1662 ; under which the freemen of the jurisdiction,
the "one body corporate and politic in fact and in name," by
their representatives, were " annually to hold two general
assemblies — one on the second Thursday in May, and the
other on the second Thursday in October — to consist of the
governor, deputy governor and twelve assistants, with the
more popular element of two deputies from every town or
city.""

■' "May, 1669, Genl Court. Upon the petition of the church at Stratford, this
court doth declare that whereas ye church have settled Mr. Chauncey their officer
and doe desire that they may peaceably injoy the full improvement of their
minister and administrations without hindrance or disturbance, the Court grants
their petition therein, only the Court seriously adviseth both parties to choose
some indifferent persons of piety and learning to compose their differences and
settle an agreement among them, and that till October Court there may be liberty
for Mr. Walker to preach once in the day, as they have hitherto done by their
agreement, the church allowing him full three hours between the church two meet-
ings for the same."

* Conn. Col. Rec, i. iii.

* Hollister's Conn. History, i. 209.

Colonial Siirrotindings. 103

This established the General Assembly in place of the old
General Court, and constituted a popular government of
great constructive force and executive ability ; and was the
second " key note " to the government afterwards established
for the United States; Ludlow's first constitution of Con-
necticut being the first. This union affected Stratford but
little, since it had been under the Connecticut Colony from
the first, but it created some considerable excitement and
trouble in New Haven and the plantations in union with it.

Neiv Afnsterdani— now New York— had been a trou-
blesome neighbor to the Connecticut and New Haven people,
and whoever w^as most in fault, it is certain that the needless
Dutch and Indian war in 1643, was the cause of great excite-
ment, some loss of life and much expense to these two Col-
onies. This old calamity had not been forgotten in 1653,
when by the irritating conduct of the Dutch Governor, the
Commissioners of the United Colonies determined on an
expedition with 500 soldiers against that government, and of
this number of men Stratford was to furnish six and Fairfield
eight. After the Commissioners had voted for the war and
ordered and proportioned the men and war provisions among
the Colonies, the Massachusetts General Court refused to
cooperate in prosecuting the war, and the expedition was
delayed and finally failed. This was the occasion of some
irruption between Stamford and New Haven, because of this
delay and failure, and because only church members were
allowed to vote in those plantations; and also when Mr.
Ludlow — by far the most capable statesman then within the
two Colonies, determined to leave the jurisdictions.

When King Charles IL was restored, he gave to his
brother, the Duke of York, large possessions in America, and
the Duke proceeded to secure possession of his territory by
sending in the summer of 1664, Col. Richard NicoUs to take
possession of them, and his appearance at Boston created
great excitement, the colonists fearing there might be some
new trouble, but the only demand that was made wns for
soldiers to go against New Amsterdam. Col. Nicolls, how-
ever, proceeded to his place of destination, and in August of

1^4 History of Stratford.

that year the city surrendered, without bloodshed, and it was
named New York in honor of the Duke of York."

Woodbury Plantation was settled by a company
organized for the purpose at Stratford in the year 1672. The
Woodbury History says this settlement " was the result of
difference in religious opinions among the inhabitants of
Stratford," but it seems to have been the result rather of a
spirit of enterprise, progress and ambition to secure comfort-
able homes and inheritances for their descendants.

The plantation at Derby had been commenced in 1654 by
Milford people, and several men in Stratford, namely : Joseph
Hawley, Henry Tomlinson, Ebenezer Johnson, Doct. John
Hull and Jabez Harger, had become interested in the settle-
ment of that place, by purchases of land from the Indians of
the Paugasset tribe.

In 1666, a company had been organized, principally from
Milford and Branford, for a settlement at Newark, N. J., and
with this movement some of the inhabitants of Stratford had
joined.

Individual families had removed at various times from
Stratford to Fairfield, Long Island, Westchester, N. Y., New
London, Durham and Stonington.

In 1667, Mr. Samuel Sherman, Mr. Thomas Fairchild,
Lieut. William Curtis, Ens. Joseph Judson, Mr. Joseph
Hawley, John Minor and others had received liberty to
establish a plantation at Potatuck, afterwards Newtown, but
the enterprise was soon abandoned, for in 1670, the same
parties nearly, led by the then comparatively wealthy Mr.
Samuel Sherman, petitioned the General Court for liberty to
make a plantation at Farmill river, then within the territory
of Stratford, which failed, apparently, for want of room.

In 1671, Mr. Henry Tomlinson and others of Stratford,
purchased, under a grant from the General Court, territory
of nearly 30,000 acres of land for a plantation, at what after-
wards became the town of New Milford.

The next plantation proposition was a grant by the Gen-
eral Court, in May, 1672, to " Mr. Samuel Sherman, Lt. Wm.

'" See Hollistcr's History, i. 22S.

Woodbury Planters.

195

Curtice, Ens. Joseph Judson and John Minor, themselves and
associates, liberty to erect a plantation at Poinperoage,"
which was made a grand success in a very short time.

" Early the next spring," fifteen of Mr. Walker's congre-
gation started with their families for the wilderness of
Pomperaug." Seventeen had signed the " Fundamental
Articles" for the settlement, but two, Mr. Samuel Sherman
and Thomas Fairchild, did not remove thither.

The signers were :

Samuel Sherman, Sen.,
Joseph Judson, Sen.,
John Minor,
Israel Curtiss,
John Wheeler,
John Wyatt,
John Sherman,
John Judson,
Joshua Curtiss,

Samuel Styles,
Titus Hinman,
David Jenkins,
Moses Johnson,
Samuel Munn,
Roger Terrill,
Eleazer Knowles,
Thomas Fairchild.

By this list it may be seen that only two of the original
minority of eight'" who inaugurated the division of the
church at Stratford — Joseph Judson and John Minor — re-
moved to Woodbury, and hence that the removal was more a
question of personal interest and civil advantage than of
church division.

Other families soon removed from Stratford to Wood-
bury, and the emigration continued many years. In King
Philip's and the Narragansett war, several of the families
returned to Stratford for temporary protection until the close
of the war, when they again took possession of their home-
steads in Woodbury.

This temporary return is proved by a'town vote of Strat-
ford in the autumn of 1675, when several of the leading
Woodbury men were appointed on the committee to attend

" Woodbury History, i. 35.
'- See page 173 of this book.

1^6 History of Stratford.

to the fortification of the village of Stratford.'' These men —
Lt. Joseph Judson and Sergt. John Minor, who was reelected
town clerk and served two years, were among the most
prominent of the Woodbury company, and they with others
of their number were here in Stratford in the autumn of 1675,
and doubtless remained all winter and the next summer, for
in October, 1676, Rev. Zechariah Walker himself being then
at Stratford, with several other of his parishioners addressed
a letter to the General Court seeking special protection if
they should at that time return to Woodbur}' ; but they did
not all return that year, for some of them remained until into
the year 1678.''

Kiii(f JPJiilip^s War, which became largely a war
with the Narragansett Indians, then much the most numerous
tribe in Connecticut and Rhode Island, if not in all New
England, broke out in July, 1675, and continued one year or
a little more.

It was fortunate that the military forces of the Colony
had been well organized during the previous nine years, for
otherwise there probably would have been great slaughter of
the whites in New England.

In May, 1666, the General Court organized the tour
counties of Hartford, New London, New Haven and Fair-
field, they being the first in the Colony.'^

13 " Nov. I, 1675. At a lawful town meeting at Stratford, It was voted and
agreed to, and Capt. [VVm.] Curtiss, Left. Joseph Judson, Sergt. Jere. Judson,
Sergt. John Minor, Sergt. Jehiel Preston, Robert Clark, John Pickett, Sen., were
chosen a Committee to act according to ye order of ye General Court respecting
fortification. John Minor, Recorder."

i-> " Nov. 18, 1678. It was voted that that societ)^ formerl}^ contributing to ye
maintaining of Mr. Chauncey should as formerly allow him sevent}' pounds, the
other inhabitants that have neglected to contribute to the maintenance of the min-
istry should pay to Mr. Chauncey in proportion with the rest of that society, to be
aded to the seventy pounds, the others that have yearly payed to Mr. Walker have
their liberty to pay to Mr. Chauncey as much as they please for the year past."

15 " May, 1666. This Court orders that from the east bounds of Stratford to
the west bounds of R^^e shall be for future one (bounty which shall be called the
County of Fairfield. And it is ordered that the County Court shall be held at
Fairfield on the Second Tuesday in March, and the first Tuesday in November
yearly." Col. Rec, ii. 35.

The Narragansett War. 107

In May, 1673, the militia companies of the towns were
placed into county organizations, and a Major appointed for
each county, and these were the highest officers in the mili-
tary ranks at the time, except the Governor. Capt. Robert
Treat of Milford, was chosen Major of New Haven county
and Capt. Nathan Gold, of Fairfield, Major for Fairfield
county.

The train band of Stratford had officers appointed June,
1672, as follows: William Curtiss, Captain; Joseph Judson'
Lieutenant, and Stephen Burritt, Ensign ; and at the same
Court William Curtiss was appointed one of the " Committee
for the well ordering of the militia in case of any sudden exi-
gency," for the Colony.

At the same Court it was "hereby declared that till
farther order be taken. Captain Nathan Gold shall be deemed
chief military officer of the county of Fairfield, and Capt.
William Curtice his second."

Also, at the same time, the Court " ordered that 500
dragoons should be forthwith raised; the proportion for
Fairfield county was fixed at 120, thus: Fairfield, 38; Strat-
ford, 33; Stamford, 24; Greenwich, 8; Norwalk, 7; Rye
being near" is excused ; the officers being Thomas Fitch,
Captain ; Jehu Burr, Lieutenant ; Matthew Sherwood, Ensign.
Each dragoon was provided with a sword and belt, a "ser-
viceable musket with a shott powch and powder and buUitts."

All these military organizations were preparatory in
view of self-defence against any emergency. During the
last few days of July, 1675, the disturbances by King Philip's
men which had commenced in Massachusetts in the early part
of the month, rapidly increased, and on the 6th of August the
first draft of soldiers was made — one hundred dragoons from
Hartford, sixty from New Haven, and seventy from Fairfield
counties, to be ready " at an hour's warning." Drafting men
for the militia and collecting provisions, ammunition and arms
was continued from this time forward for several weeks.
Confusing reports of the hostile movements and the depreda-
tions of the Indians near Norwich, Connecticut, and up the

"^ This is obscure.
14

1^8 History of Stratford.

Connecticut river, reached the war council, and small parties
of soldiers were sent in different directions. Major Treat,
with an army of about two hundred men was sent into Massa-
chusetts to aid the forces in that Colony, when an alarming
report was circulated that the Paugasset Indians at Derby
" were with their arms prepared in a hostile manner," and Mr.
Alexander Bryan, of Milford, sent to Hartford for protection,
in consequence of which Major Treat was recalled from
Massachusetts.

At this time the greatest alarm prevailed throughout the
Colonies, and great military exertions were made.

The war Council, Sept. 3, 1675, ordered, "that in the
several plantations of this Colony there be kept a sufficient
watch in the night, which watch is to be continued from the
shutting in of the evening till the sun rise ; and that one-
fourth part of each town be in arms every day by turns, to
be a guard in their respective plantations ; to be ordered and
disposed as the chief military officers shall appoint; and all
soldiers from sixteen to seventy years of age (magistrates,
commissioners, ministers, commission officers, school masters,
physicians and millers excepted) are to attend their course of
watch and ward as they shall be appointed. It is also order-
ed that, during these present commotions with the Indians,
such persons as have occasion to work in the fields shall work
in companies ; if they be half a mile from the town, not less
than six in a company, with their armes and ammunition well
fixed and fitted for service." "

This put all the capable men of the Colony into the ranks
and into the service, and the excitement and calamity were
great. One event of war followed another in quick succes-
sion. On the igth of September, the Fairfield dragoons,
under Ens. Stephen Burritt of Stratford reported at Hartford
and were sent north, the regular army having preceded them ;
and about fifteen days later while Major Treat and his army
were at Westfield, Mass., Springfield was attacked by the
Indians, but the Major and his forces arrived in time to save
the lives of the people and about half of the buildings of the
town ; the rest were burned.

^^ Conn. Col. Record, ii. 361.

The Narragansett War. loo

Thus continued the war, the troops marching to New
London and Norwich and back, and into Massachusetts and
back, great fear and startling reports prevailing. Simsbury
was burned, private houses were burned and the families
killed, and companies of white people while traveling were
massacred in the eastern part of the Colony and in Massa-
chusetts,

Frequent drafts were made for wheat in quantities of one
and two hundred bushels from a county ; and for January
and February, 1676, the amount for Fairfield county was 120
bushels each month.

In October, 1675, upon the reports of the Indians being
ready at Narragansett to attack Connecticut, Major Treat was
sent in haste to Norwich to take charge of the forces raised
in that vicinity and act in defence of the people until other
troops should arrive ; and each county was required to " raise
sixty soldiers, well fitted with horses, arms and ammunition,
as dragoons who shall be imbodied for motion in their several
counties for the defence of the Colony;" and Capt. \Vm.
Curtiss was to command those raised in Fairfield, and appoint
his inferior officers.

At this time the war cloud thickened fast over the Nar-
ragansett Indians, they having, after some hesitancy con-
cluded to join King Philip, and venture their all on the field
of war.

On the 23d of November the draft from Fairfield county
was 100 bushels of wheat, and 72 soldiers, to be at New Lon-
don before the loth of December, the plan being to make an
attack on the Narragansett fort in the winter, and thereby
make a more complete destruction of the enemy than could
be effected at any other season.

The Narragansett "swamp fight" or "fort fight," oc-
curred on the 19th day of December, 1675, when there had
just been a great snow fall and the weather was severely cold.
The Indian fort was situated in the midst of a dense swamp,
but it was finally reached and ente-red, captured and burned,
and looo Indians and 200 English were killed and wounded.
The Connecticut troops suffered more than the Massachusetts
because they entered the fort at the place of the greatest re-

200 History of Stratford.

sistance. Of these forces three of their five captains, Seeley,
Marshall and Gallop were killed and one other, Mason, mor-
tally wounded ; and 40 men were killed or died of their
wounds.

The next month a new army was raised and Fairfield
county was called upon for 37 men, which were sent forward;
and the next May, of an army of 300 soldiers, Fairfield was
required to furnish 82, and of wheat 400 bushels.

The draft for meats was in proportion ; and the taxes
were raised from a penny and a half to twelve pence on the
pound throughout the Colony.

Fortunately the war terminated in June and July of that
year, king Philip and his brave, terrible warriors having
been exterminated."

Of those who distinguished themselves as officers from
Stratford, in this Indian War, were Capt. William Curtiss, a
faithful, reliable officer; Lieut. Joseph Joudson, mentioned
specially as a capable field officer; and Ensign, afterwards
Lieutenant Stephen Burritt, who became a distinguished
Indian fighter, and was kept much of the time in the saddle
with small squads of men hunting roving parties of Indians
intent on depredations, along the Connecticut river.

The calamity of such a war falling upon new settlements
in a wilderness country may be estimated somewhat from the
number of freemen in the Colony. This, in 1669, was only
790.'* Besides these the number of men from 16 years of age

'* For a carefully prepared, although abbreviated and beautifully written ac-
count of King Philip's War, see Hollister's History of Connecticut, vol. i. 253.

'^ The number of Freemen in each of the towns of Connecticut, then incor-
porated, reported in October, 1669, except Middletown, Lyme and Rye, from
which no report is recorded. Col. Rec, ii. 518.

Branford,

Killingworth,

Stamford,

Fairfield,

Milford,

Stonington,

Farmington,

New London,

Stratford,

Guilford,

New Haven,

Wethersfield,

Haddam,

Norwalk,

Windsor,

126

Hartford,

lis

Norwich,
Say brook.

25
23

790

A Netv Meetino-Jioiise.

201

to 70, subject to military duty who were not yet made free-
men, may have been equal to this, but then a draft of 300
would be a very serious matter from 1600 men, but there
were more than double that number called out within the
year the war continued ; probably more than 1000 different
men went out in the service.

But this was six years before the war. The list for Oct.,
1676, gives 2303, which was a prosperous increase, notwith-
standing the war,'" and by the grand list for that year it may
be seen how burdensome a tax of 12 pence on the pound
must have been.

Such were some of the interests and calamities which
occupied the attention of the people of Stratford for twenty
years previous to 1680, during which, notwithstanding all the
depletions from various causes, the numbers increased, and
general prosperity attended their labors.

A New Meeting -house was resolved upon only two
years after the close of the Narragansett war, by a town
vote, Nov. 18, 1678, "as soon as may be, for the use of the
town." Several sites were proposed," and at a meeting one

-'^ The list of persons and estates for purposes of taxation in each town, in
October, 1676, was as follows :

Persons.

Estates.

Persons.

Estates.

Hartford,

241

M559

New Haven,

237

12993

Farmington,

102

6128

Milford,

151

8524

Wethersfield,

141

100S2

Branford,

2579

Windsor,

204

13053

Guilford,

6215

Middletown,

4811

Wallingford,

1660

Haddam,

i6go

Fayrefield,

152

9428

New London,

153

go6i

Stratford,

5522

Norwich,

4593

Norwalke,

4073

Stonington,

6016

Stanford,

4673

Lyme,

2846

Greenwich,

1719

Saybrook,

5041

Rye,

1591

Kenilworth,

2342

Col.

Rec, ii. 518.

■-'1 "Nov. iS, 167S. Voted that there should be a new meeting-house built as
soon as maybe, for ye use of ye town." Five places were mentioned " for ye set-
ting of the meeting-house upon." First, in the street by the pond ; 2dly, in the
street by the north-west corner of widow Peat's lot ; 3dly, in the street between
"Mr. Hawley and John Beach, their home lots; 4ly, in ye street between Caleb
Nichols and Daniel Beardsley ; 5th, upon the hill called Watch-house hill."

The same day it was voted that these places should be decided by lot.

202 History of Stratford.

year later, Nov. 25, 1679, they settled the question to build it
on Watch-house hill, facing- South down Front street, as then
called. This site was, as it is still, on the public commons.
The^dimensions of the house were voted to be "48 feet in
length, 42 feet in breadth and 16 feet between joints;" and
the building committee were " Capt. [Wm.] Curtiss, Sergt.
Jerem. Judson, John Curtiss, Sergt. Jehiel Preston and John
Birdsey, Jr."

On the loth of December, 1678, they voted to raise a tax
of one hundred pounds " to pay charges about the building of
a new meeting-house."

This meeting-house was built in the summer of 1680, for
the site was not established until November, 1679,'^ and in
September, 1680, it was approaching completion so far that
they proceeded to fix the rules by which it should be seated
as follows :

First, that " every inhabitant in Stratford, both men and
women, shall be seated and placed in the proper seats in the
new meeting-house," and Mr. Samuel Sherman, Sen., Capt.
Wm. Curtiss and Mr. Joseph Hawley, were appointed to seat
the inhabitants. The rules of dignity were established :

" First, Magistrates and Commission officers according
to their place of dignity.

" 2ly, that all persons past the age of sixty years should
be accounted honorable, notwithstanding their payments and
be seated accordingly.

3ly, that all other persons under the age of sixty years
should be seated according to their disbursements and pay-
ments to the new meeting-house which has been according to
law."

It was, however, nearly three months before the place of

^- "Nov. 25, 167S. It was voted that the new meeting-house should be built
and settled upon the hill commonly called the Watch-house hill.

"At the same time Mr. Israel Chauncey's proposal to the town was that if
they setl the meeting-house upon the hill hee would consent thereto with this pro-
visal that they would allow him one hundred pounds within the compass of two
years after the first meeting in the new meeting-house, and there was good encour-
agement given him by the town in answer to his proposal." Since Mr. Chauncey's
yearly salary was ^^So or more, he contributed so much to the building of the
meeting-house.

Btirying-places. 203

worship could be seated, there being some delay in finishing
the work.

As to the expenses of the house of worship, there is a bill
of items entered upon the town records which includes only
a part of its cost, the full sum not being found. The items
consist mostly of an account of days' work rendered and
wheat received on account. One entry is made that was one
of the heavy items at the time : " Due to Mr. Richard Bryan
for glass and box ^19-14-8."

Wheat was received at the time at five shillings a bushel,
and the work of a man was credited two shillings and six
pence and three shillings a day.

This meeting-house was afterwards prepared for other
purposes than those of worship, as indicated by the following
town meeting record :

" Feb. 19, 1689. Voted that the present meeting-house
shall be fortified for use as a place of security for women and
children in all times of danger by any enemy." This was in
obedience to the direction of the General Court the previous
year.

Burying-places. — Before the second meeting-house
was built or any action taken to secure that end, it became
apparent to the people of the town that the first burjing-
ground was in the wrong place, — could not be extended to
meet the wants of the community and that another must be
secured. Hence in 1676, the town appointed a committee to
select and lay out such a place, but the work was delayed
until February, 1677-8, when it was completed.

Of those who died before the new ground began to be
occupied, the town records furnish only the following list :

John Knell, son of Nicholas, died Jan. 16, 1651.

[Thomas Sherwood died in i656.]-'

John Young departed this life Apr. 7, 1661.

Samuel Blakeman (an infant) died January, 1661.

Samuel Blackeman died Nov. 27, 1668.

Abram Tomlinson, son of Henry, died May 30, 1662.

^^ This has been placed on record not by the town clerk of that time.

204 History of Stratford.

Samuel Blackeman's infant buried January, 1664.

Hannah Griffin, dau. of Hugh, Sen., was buried Apr. 30,
1670.

Dorothy Griffin, wife of Hugh, Sen., was buried Apr. 30,
1670.

Robert Lane, son of Robert and Sarah Lane, died 17th,
I St, 1673-4.

Mary Harger, dau. of Jabez, died Apr. 17, 1673.

Mr. Nicholas Knell died April 2, 1675.

Mr. Thomas Fairchild died Dec. 14, 1670.

Mr. Philip Groves died loth Feb., 1675.

Joseph Judson, son of Joseph, died Feb. i, 1677.

James Levens, son of John, died Apr. 23, 1678.

John Peat, Jr., died January 28, 1677-8.

Esther Gelpin, wife of Samuel, died Aug. 27, 1678.

Sarah Birdsey, dau. of John, Jr., died Jan. 21, 1678.

Sergt. Nathaniel Porter died Jan. 14, 1679.

Henry Tomlinson died March 16, 1680-1.

Elizabeth Curtiss, wife of John, Jr., died March 9, 1681-2.

John Hurd, Sen., died Feb. 4, 1681-2.

Elizabeth Porter died Feb. 6, 1683.

"Feb. 13, 1677-8. The townsmen according to town act
Feb. 12, 1676, and by town order have laid out one acre of
land on the west end of John Beers his home lot for the use
of a burying place, bounded east with John Beers, his home
lot and common land, South, West, and North with common
land."

This was the place which is now, and for more than a
hundred years, has been commonly called the Congrega-
tional bur3nng ground. When laid out it was, doubtless,
intended for all the people of the town, but man}^ years after-
ward, when the Episcopal Church was established, another
place was laid out which has always been called the Episco-
pal Burying Ground. Both of these grounds are well filled,
and but seldom in these days is a new grave made in them.
To walk through them and read the inscriptions is something
like a visit to the hearthstones of long remembered kindred,
where the house is left vacant. There is a melancholy sad-

Burying-places. 205

ness, and yet a pathetic loveliness about the places where
kindred dust sleeps its long and peaceful sleep ; and it is not
the purpose in transcribing these records, to keep any from
these sacred inclosures where lessons of wisdom may be
learned, but to place them where they may be the more fre-
quently consulted, and where the rain drops will not oblit-
erate forever the record. Already some of them cannot be
wholly read, while others have been deciphered by the assist-
ance of various methods, at the expense of half an hour's time
on a single stone.

What a pity there is not a grave-stone for every person
that ever died in the town. What a pity, and a shame that
such matters are, and have been neglected, as demonstration
now proclaims.

Much ridicule has been made of eulogistic epitaphs, but
how much more to be commended such pathetic praise,
as if the memory of the departed was not at once forgotten,
than not even to mark the place where kindred bodies have
been laid.

" Honor thy father and mother," being a precept suffi-
ciently ancient and authoritative, wh}' should children consign
to oblivion the names of once fond and idolizing parents?

In the following record very great care has been exer-
cised in going over the whole ground three times, with the
intention and diligent effort to present the lettering of every
inscription \w%X. as it is on the stone. The record may not be
perfect but is very nearly so.

2o6

History of Stratford.

Inscriptions in the Congregational Burying-place in Stratford.

Alice Amhler died 185 1.

JEliZur Andretvs died May 30, 1753,
JE. 83.

Sarah 3Iorton, Wife of Elezer An-
drews, Died Oct. 24, 186S, JE. 95 yrs.

Hortensia E. Armstrong, died
Sept. 5, 1854, JE. 45.

In Memory of

Mrs. Elizabeth Baldtvin, Relict
of Nathaniel Baldwin, who died July
30, 1821, aged 52.

In calm repose her body lies.

When Christ appears her dust shall rise.

Laura 3Iaria, Wife of Charles Bar-
ker and daughter of Thomas M. and
Harriet M. Rogers. Born at Strat-
ford, Ct., Sept. 20, 1822. Died at
West Farms, N. Y., Dec. 18, 1853,
Aged 31 years 2 months and 26 days.

The memory of other days
^yhen thy loved form was by.
Will guide thy dear ones to thee,
In thy house beyond the sky.

In Memory of
Capt. John Barlow, who died May
the 4, 1786, in the 37th year of his Age.

Tho' Borea's Blasts and Neptune's Waves

Have tossed me to and fro

In spite of Death by God's Decree

I harbor here below^.

Where I do now at anchor ride.
With many of our fleet.
Yet once again I must make sail
Our admiral Christ to meet.

In Memory of
Capt. David Barloiv, who died

Oct. 6, 1820, aged 59 years.
Helen T., wife of Edward Batterson,

died Feb. 5, 1848, JE. 21 yrs. and 6

mo. Also their

Infant daughter, died Jan. 31, 1848,
JE. 2 ds.

Hiram, son of Sillick & Emma Bat-
terson, died, Sept. 6, 1814, JE. i yr. i
mo. & 2 ds.

Isabella, and Helen J., daughters

of Edward & Mary H. Batterson. JE.

sYz mos. Died Feb. ^, 1848.
Here Lyes Buried the Body of
Ephraim Beach, Who Deceas'^

March the isti", i7i'6-i7 in y'= 30"!

year of his age.

Here lies Buried ye Body of
Mr. Isaac Beach, Who Died April
30"^. Anno Dom"', 1741, Aged 71
years & 10 mos.

Here lies Buried the Body of
Lieut. James Beach, he died Sep-
tember ye 16, 1752, aged 44 years.

Here lyes ye Body of
Jerusha Beach, Daug. of Mr.
Jeames Beach & Mrs. Sarah his wife,
who died Jany, y'^ 20, 1760, in y*^ 19
year of her age.

Here Lyes ye Body of
Jerusha Beach, Dau"" of Mr. James
and Mrs. Sarah Beach, who died Aug^*
27"*, 1738, Aged 5 years, 10 months
«& II Days.

Here lyes ye Body of
Nehemiah Beach, Son of Mr.

James and Mrs. Sarah Beach, Who
Died Aug^* 7*'", 1738, Aged 5 years 10
mos. & II Days.

Here lyes y" Body of
Lieut. Joseph Beach, Who De-
parted this life December ye 17"=,
Anno Dom°' 1737 in y'^ 66"* Year of
His Age.

Here Lyes Buried y'^ Body of
Mr. Nathaniel Beach, Who Died
Aug. 20*"^, Ann. Dom. 1734 in ye 38th
Year of his age.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
3Ir. Nathaniel Beach, Who De-
parted this life July 24"^, Anno Dom°'
1747. Aged 84 years & 3 mos.

Here lyes Buried ye Body of
3Irs. Sarah Beach, Wife to M"^
Nathaniel Beach, Who Died March
ye 25tii^ A.D. 1738, Aged 70 years.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
Mr. Neheniiah Beach, Who de-
parted this life March ye ^^'^, 1770, in
ye jQth year of His Age.

In Memory of
Eunica Beach, Wife of Mr. Nehe-
miah Beach, who departed this Life
November nth, A. D. 17 — , in the 4-
year of her Age. [This stone is bro-
ken and two dates destroyed.]

Inscriptions in the Congregational Bnrying-place. 207

In Memory of

Eunica Beach, Daughter of Mr.

Nehemiah and Mrs. Eunica Beach,

who departed this Life Aug. 24"",

A. D. 1775 in the 6^'' year of Her Age.

In Memory of
SfiraJi, Dauf^ of Mr. Nehemiah Beach

Who died May 2, 1770 in y*' 3"* year

of Her Age.
Hansom Beacfi, Died Oct. 4, 1859,

Aged 75.
Slisatl Beach, Daughter of Ransom

& Lucy F. Beach, Died July 28,

1882, Aged 74.
Lucy Frost, Wife of Ransom Beach,

died Aug. 17, 1849. J£. 63.

Elijah IF., Son of Ransom & Lucy

F. Beach, died July 25, 1S32, JE. 22.

Here lyes y"^ Body of

JRiith Beardslee, Relict of Daniel

Beardslee, Died May ye 4^'', 1732 in

y' 71 year of her age.

Here lyes ye Body of
3Ir. Daniel Beardslee, died Oct"^
ye 7, 1730, in ye 86 year of his age.
Here lyes y" Body of
Mr. John Beardsley, Died No-
vember 17"', 1739, in ye 52 Year of
his age.

Here lyes y" Body of
Mr. John Beardslee, Died Novem-
ber y'^ 7, 1702 in ye 52"^ year of his age.

John Beardsley, Died Nov. 20,

1833, aged 30 years,
Sidney J. Beardsley, Died May

19, 1852, JE. 54.
Mary Ann Thompson, Wife of

Sidney J. Beardsley, Died Aug. 16,

1844, JE. 45.

In Memory of
Helen Judson, who died May 26,

1S25, aged 26 years.
Also of
Edwin Judson, son of Sidney J.

& Mary Ann Beardsley, who died

Sept. 25, 1825, aged 5 months.

Charles _P. Beers, Died Oct. 7,
1S50, JE. 27 yrs.

Josiah, son of Nathan and Hannah
Beers, died June 22'^ 1752 aged 13
mos. & 4 ds.

Josiah Beers, son of Ensn. Josiah
and Mrs. Elizabeth Beers, died Janry,
ye ^tb^ j^gQ_gj^ aged 27 years.

Lewis Beers, Died April 12, 1851,
^. 52 Yrs.

Susan, Wife of Lewis Beers, Died
Dec. 23, 1881, JE. 80.

3Jffr</rtre^ daughter of Lewis & Susan
Beers, died June 30, i83i,aged i year
and II months.

The Remains of
Samtiel Beers, who departed this
life October 17, 1798, aged 70 years
& 4 months.

In Memory of
John Bell, from London, late mer-
chant of the City of New York ; who
died Sepf 21st, 1798 in the 44 year of
his age. He was son-in-law to John
Brooks, Esquire, of Stratford.

(Our Father & Mother)
Wni. H, Benjamin, Died Feb. 10,

i860, JE. f,2. Also
Cynthia A., His Wife, Died Sept.

28, 1S66, JE. 60.

George F., Son of William H. &
Cynthia A. Benjamin, died Oct. 13,
1848, JE. 3 yrs. & 6 mo.

George, son of William H. & Cynthia
A. Benjamin, died Feb. 14, 183S, aged
5 yrs. & 2 mo's.

In Memory of

Mrs. HannaJi, Betts, the Wife of
Mr. Moses Betts, who died December
24^^ A.D. 17S2, in y" 22 year of her
Age.

Sacred to the memorj- of

Benjamin Bigelow, who died,
Sept. 25, 1815, aged 70 years.

Sacred to the memory of
Catharine Bigelow, who died Aug.
I, 1821, aged 73.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
Lieut. Abel Birdsey, who depart-
ed this life May 14th, Anno Domni,
1747, in ye 6S"^ year of His Age.

In Memory of

Nathan Birdsey,w\\o died Aug. 5,

1832, aged 83 years, & 3 mo.

In memory of

Abigail Birdscye, who died May

4, 1827, aged 72 years.

Sacred to the memory of the
Ber. Kathan Birdsey e, A.M.

He was born Aug. 19, 1714 ; Gradu-
ated at Yale College, 1736. Ordained
at West Haven, 1742 ; Dismissed &
recommended by the Consociation,
1758, and departed this life Jan. 28,
1818, aged 103 years 5 months & 9
days.

The memory of the just is blessed.

208

History of Stratford.

Sacred to the memory of
Mrs. Dorothy Jiirdseye, Con-
sort of the Rev. Nathaniel Birdseye,
who died Sept. 2ist, 1807, In the SS"'
year of her age.

In memorj' of
JM'isfi Lticjf, daughter of the Rev.
Nathan Birdsey, who died much la-
mented, Dec. 24, 1823 ; aged 64 years.

In memory of
3Ir. Philo Birdseye, who died
Jan. 6, 1814, in the 30 year of his age.
He was intered in Masonic Order.

3Irs. lietsey Birdsey, His Relict

Died Feb. i, 1814 ; in the 27 year of

her age.
This stone was erected by Mrs. Helen

Birdseye in memory of hef husband,
3Ir. Thadeus Birdseye, who died

Feb. 23, 1800 in the 47*'' year of his

Age.
Helen, Widow of Thaddeus Birdseye,

Died April 26, 1856, J£. 94 yrs. 1 1 mo.

& 13 Days.

Here Lyes the Body of
Bichard BlackleacJi, Esq., Deed.

Sept. the 4*'^ 1731, in the 78"' year of

his Age.

Here Lyes Body of
3Irs. AhiyaU Blackleacli, Wife

to Richard Blachleach, Esq. Aged

60 years. Died March y^ 10, 1712-13.

Frederich, son of James & Fanny
Blackman. was drowned Aug. 10,
1826, aged 19.

In Memory of

Capt. Ahijah Blukeman, Who
was lost at Sea on his passage from
Bermuda to Newprovidence, In Au-
gust 1807, aged 29 years.

Here lyes the Body of
Anna, Wife of Zachariah Blakeman,
who departed this life March 23'' 1789,
in the 32'' 3'ear of her age.

Here lyes y" Body of
3Irs. Elizabeth Blehmau, Wife
to Mr. Zechariah Blekman, Who Died
March 23'', 1732. in y** 52'^ year of her
age.

Miss Anne Blakeman, Daughter
of Mr. James & Mrs. Anne Blake-
man. died March 3, 1809, in the 22
year of her age.

In Memory of
Mr. James Blakeman, who died
Novem''" 12"', 1791, In the 79"' year
of his age. Also,

Mrs. Sarah, his Wife, died Decem'"'
15*. 1793. In the 73"^ year of her age.
In memory of
Sarah, the wife of Mr. James Blake-
man, Jun^ Who Died December the
12 A. D. 1775, in the 26 year of her age.
In Mem or}' of
Miller Blakeman, son of James
Blakeman, Jun'', who departed this
Life, May 27, 17S1, in the Sth year of
his age.

In Memory of
Capt. Agur Booth, who died Oct.

29, 181S, aged 70 years.
3Irs. Anna, his relict, died Nov. 26,
1 8 18, aged 66.

In Memory of
Daniel Booth, who departed this
Life May 8, 1801 In the 77 year of
his Age.

Here lieth the Body of
3Irs. Elizabeth Booth, Who died
in the 21^' year of her age, Jul}- 29,
1702.

[Monument.]

Elizabeth Pratt, wife of Charles
H. Booth, Died in New York, Dec.
29, 1844, JE. 33 yrs.

"For if we believe that Jesus died and rose
again, even so theni also which sleep in Jesus
will God bring with him."

Charles E., son of Charles H. & Eliz-
abeth P. Booth, Born March 27, 1843,
Died Sept. 18, 1870.

"We know that when he shall appear we

shall be like him; for we shall see Him as

he is."

In Memor}' of

Edward Waimvriyht, infant son
of Charles H. & Elizabeth P. Booth,
who died July 17, 1835, aged 6 months.
In Memory of

Eli Booth, son of Abijah L. & Abby
B. Booth, who was killed by fall of a
tree April 15, 1S23, aged 14 j^ears.

Eli Booth, Died Feb. i, 1S64, M. 76

yrs. & 10 mos.

Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord.
3Iary, Wife of Eli Booth, Died Sept.

12, 1865, JE. 78.

For they rest from their labors and their
works do follow them.

Frederick Leavenworth, son of

John C. & Margaret J. Booth, died
Dec. 29, 1852, JE. 7 months.
In Memory of
Capt. James Booth, who died
March 19, 1809, In the 75"' year of his
age.

Inscriptions in the Congregational Biirying-place. 209

Here lyes Buried the Body of
Mr, Janies Booth, Who departed
this life, August the 20, 1766, Aged
78 years.

In Memory of
Mrs. Abir/ail, wife of Mr. James
Booth, who died Aug. 10, 1S17, yE. 79.

In Memory of the Children of

Capt. James & Mrs. Abigail Booth.

Abel Hoothf who died April 15, 1777,

in the 20"^ year of his Age.
flames Hoofli, who died March so**!,
1766, in the 2'' year of his Age.
Here lyes Buried the Body of
Mrs. 3I(vrtha Booth, 2'^ wife to
Mr. James Booth, Who Departed this
Life Decern, y^, 1747, in 52'^ Year of
Her Age.

In Memory of
3Ir. fjohn Booth, who died Dec. 2,
1822, aged 86 years.

In Memory of
3Irs. Lncy Booth, wife of Mr. John
Booth, who died Sept. 17. A. D. 1817,
in the 77 year of her age.
In Memory of
Mary Booth, who died Nov. 24,
1772, in y" 3'' year of her age.
In memory of
Josiah Booth, who died Dec. 30"',

1772, in y® 5 year of his age.

The Children of John and Mrs. Lucy

Booth.

In Memory of

John Booth, who died Aug. 10, 1825,

aged 61 years.

In Memory of
Mrs. Sarah Booth, the wife of John
Booth, who died March 24, 1826, aged
60 years.

In memory of
Mrs. Jeriisha Booth & her two
babies, Wife of Mr. John Booth, Jur.
& Daughter of Mr. Eli Lewis, who
died Nov'' 10, 1796, Aged 31 years.

[A Monument. West Side.]

Erected over the graves of

Jose})h Booth, Son of Richard Booth,

who died Sept. i, 1703, ^E. 46. And
Hannah, Wife of Joseph Booth &
daughter of John & Elizabeth Will-
co.\son,who died^july 10,1701,^.38.
Their Children zvere :
(Tames, Born 16S8, Died 1766.
JTosepJi, Born 1687, Died 1763.

Bohert, Born , Died .

Nathan, Born , Died .

Zechariah, Born , Died 1762.

David, Born 1679, Died 1753.
Hannah, Bom , Died .

[North Side.]

James Booth, son of Joseph Booth,
died Aug. 20, 1766, yE. 78.

3IartJia ClarJi, wife of James Booth,
died Dec. 3, 1747, .lE. 52.

Their Children were :

Sarah, Born 1732, Died 1786.

James, Born 1735, Died 1809.

John, Born 1736, Died 1822.

Hezehiah, Born 1739. Died 1761.

JosiaJt, Born 1742, Died 1767.

James Booth, son of James Booth,
died March 19, 1809, JE. 75.

Abigail Ann, wife of James Booth,
died August 11, 1817, JE. 78.
Their Children were :

Abel, Born 1757, Died 1777.

Sarah, Born 1759, Died 1841.

Hezekiah, Born 1762, Died 18 14.

Silas, Born 1763. Died 1819.

James, Born 1765, Died 1766.

Abigail Ann, Born 1766, Died .

Betsey, Born, 1768, Died 1825.

Charity, Born 1771, Died 1810.

Amy, Born 1773, Died 1844.

James, Born 1776, Died .

Abel, Born 1780, Died .

[South Side.]

John Booth, son of James Booth,
Born Aug. 3, 1736, Died Dec. 2, 1822.

Lucy, Wife of John Booth, & Daugh-
ter of Henry & Ann Curtiss, Born
March 1, 1741, Died Sept. 17, 1S17.
Their Children -Mere :

John, Born 1764, Died 1S25.

William, Bom 1765, Drowned iSio.

Josiah, Born 1768, Died 1772.

Mary, Born 1770, Died 1772.

Da rid, Born 1771, Died 1792.

Josiah, Born 1773, Died 1852.

Elijah, Born 1776.

Isaac, Bom 1783, Drowned iSio.
[East Side.]

Bichard Booth, From England, one
of the first settlers in this town in
1639, Born 1606, Aged 82 years in
16SS. Date of death unknown.
Their Children 7aere :

Elizabeth, Born 1641.

Ann, Born 1643.

Ephraim, Born 1648.

Ebenezer, Born 165 1.

John, Born 1653.

Joseph, Born 1656.

Bethya, Bom 1658.

Johanna, Born i66r.

Sarah A., The Wife of John C.
Booth, died March 8, 1849, J£. 39 yrs.

2IO

History of Stratford.

John Henry, the son of John C. &
Sarah A. Booth, died Dec. 6, 1848, JE.
2 yrs. & 7 mo.

[A Monument].

Capt. William Booth, was drown-
ed off Cape Cod, Oct. 18, iSio, aged
45 yrs.

Mary A^nn, Wife of Capt. Wm.
Boo'th, Died July 22, 185 1, aged 83
yrs.

David, son of Wm. & Mary Ann
Booth, was drowned off Cape Cod,
Oct. 18, 1810, aged 18 yrs.
In Memory of

Capt. William Booth, aged 45
years, and his son

David BootJi, Aged 17 years; and of

Isaac Booth, Aged 27 years, Who
were all drowned in Boston-Bay on
the i8th day of Oct. A.D. 1810.
Also in memory of

David Booth, who died at New
York, Dec. 23*^, 1792, Aged 21 years.

3Ir. Zechariah Booth, 1762. [This
is the foot-stone, of fine slate. The
head-stone has been broken off at the
ground, and is not to be found.

Here lyes ye Body of
Mrs. Ann Booth, Wife to Mr. Zech-
ariah Booth, Who died May i8th,
1733, in y*^ 37 Year of her Age.

In Memory of

Zechariah Brhismade, died No-
vember y** 22*^ 1741 in y"* 56 year of
his age.

Here lyes y'= Body of

SaraJi Brinsmade, Wife to Mr.
Zechariah Brinsmade, Aged 48 Years
6 months. Died June ye 9, 1736.

Hannah Brinsmade, Dau.to Mr.
Zechariah & Hannah Brinsmade,
Aged 3 years & 4 mo. Died Sept. ye

2^ 1736.

Here lyes Buried ye Body of
3rr. Benjamin Brooks ; Who De-
parted this life Dec. 30, Anno Domini,
1745, in y* 6ist Year of His age.

Here lyes Buried y'^ Body of
Mrs. Mary Brooks, Wife to Mr.
Benjamin Brooks, Who died Nov*"^
2°'^, A.D. 1740, in }'« 49*'' Year of Her
Age.

Here lyes y" Body of
Ilnldah Brooks, Daut' of Mr. Ben-
jamin & M" Mary Brooks, Who Died
January 2"'^ 1737 in y"- 12"^ Year of
her Age.

Sacred to the memorj' of
Capt. JV. Bird sen Brooks, who

with his Crew was lost at Sea, Sept.
1789 ; In the 22'^ year of his Age.

Stern Neptune nods, tfie billows rise.
In vain the Seamen raise their cries ;
Each in a moment know their dom.
And share alike a watery tomb.

David Brooks, died Mar. 16, 1S62,
aged 65 years.

Anna, Daughter of David & .^nna

Brooks, died February ye 13, 1755,
Aged 16™".

In memory of
David Brooks, who died Apr. 26,
i860, JE. 87 yrs. & II mo's.

In memor)"^ of
Ahigail Brooks, wife of David
Brooks, Esq., who died Feb. 13, 1839,
aged 66 years.

Sacred to the memory of
Edtrard Brooks, son of David &
Abigail Brooks, who died Apr. I,
1822, aged 7 years and 7 days.

Here lies inter'd the Remains of
Eli Brooks, Esq., son of John
Brooks & Anna his Wife who Depart-
ed this Life Oct'^'' 25*'^, 1775, ^tat 19.

A youth of a promising genius & an obliging
disposition, desirous of making all around him
happy. Just as he had entered upon his Colle-
giate studies, and given his Friends and Ac-
quaintance rais'd Expectations of his future
usefulness, Death marked him for his Prey, &
in the morning of Life called him to the grave.

Here lies entered the Body of
Eli, son of Cap*. Benjamin & Rebekah
Brooks, who died March 4"'. 1777 in
the 2'' Year of his age.

Here lies Buried the Body of
Isaac Brooks, son of M^ Isaac &
Mrs. Temperance Brooks who depart-
ed this life, July 23'^ 1777, Aged i
year & 7 months.

Sleep lovely Babe and take thy peaceful Rest,
God called the hence Because he thought it
best.

In memory of
3Iaria Brooks, daughter of David
& Abigail Brooks, who died Jan. 12,
1834, aged 22 )'ears & 8 mo.

John BrooJvS, Son of John & Polly
Brooks, died Aug. 22, 1794, in his 4*''
year.

Here lies intered the Body of
John Brooks, Esq., who departed
this Life March 7"', A.D. 1777 in the
63'! year of his age.

Inscriptions in the Congregational Biirying-placc. 2 1 1

In Memory of
Anna Brooks, Relict of John Brooks
Esq., who died March 19, 1S04, aged
^ 89 years.

Here lies the remains of
John BrooTxS, Esq., who departed
this Life October 22'', 1788, Aged 49
Years.

Farewell bright soul a short farewell
Till we shall meet again Above,
In the sweet groves where pleasures dwell
And tears of life bear fruits of love,
There glory sits on every face,
There friendship smiles in every eye.
There shall our tongues relate the grace
That led us homeward to the sky.

John Brooks, Esqr. and Mrs. Dorothy

Brooks, his Wife, have erected this

stone in memory of their Son

Eli, who died August 29, 1783, Aged

4 Years 4 months & 25 days.

Likewise in memory of another infant

son, named also

Eli, who died the 11 of August, 1785

aged I week & 7 hours.

In memory of
Theodosia Brooks, Daur. of Mr.

John Brooks, Junr &: Mrs. Dorothy
his wife ; who died Nov. is"", 1773,
Aged 4 years & 22 Days.

Beneath this scattered dust here's silent laid
the Father's Comfort & Mothers Aid.
Cropt like a flower she fell a victim soon
tho flattermg life had promised years to come.

NcitJian Brooks, Son of Mr. David

& Mrs. Ann Brooks, who Died Nov'"'
2'', 1746 Aged 13 months and 7 Days.

In memory of
Willifnn Brooks, who departed
this life August 11, 1804, in the 50
year of his age.

In Memory of
Phebe, relect of William Brooks, who
died July 6, 1822, aged 66.

Sacred to the Memory of
Willictni Brooks, who departed this
life July 24*", 1809, aged 30 years.

Nathan, son of Cap. Isaiah & Mrs.
Ann Brown, died Nov. 23'''^, 1753,
aged 4 months.

Bhoda, Daughter of Capt. Isaiah &
Mrs. Ann Brown, died Jany24, A. D.
1754, aged 3 years.

John Bruce, Died May 10, 1870,

J£. 82 yrs. 8 mo.

In memory of
Comjihy, Wife of John Bruce, died

Sept. 17, 1S49, M. 60.

Sarah Burch, Daughter of Mr.

Jeremiah & Mrs. Sarah Burch, Died

May ye I4'\ 1738, aged 2 years 9 mo.

&12 Da.

In Memory of
Ilezekiah Burr iff, who departed

this Life, June i, 1809; In the 70"'

year of his Age.

In Memory of
3Ir. John liinrift. Who departed
this Life, June 29, 1787, in y' 77 Year
of his Age.

Redeemed from Earth and Pain
Oh when shall we assend
And all in Jesus presence reign
\Vith our departed Friends.

Here lyes the body of
3£rs. Phehe Burritt, formerly Wife
to Mr. John Burritt, who departed
this Life, March 22, 1789, in y" 83
Year of her Age.

Redeemed from Earth and Pain
And all in Jesus presence reign
With our departed friends.

In memory of
Nathan W. Bur riff, who died,
Aug. 4, 1838 ; ^-E. 40 years.

In memory of
Bobert, Son of Nathan & Sarah Bur-
ritt, who died Aug'' 18, 1803, aged 3
years.

Here lieth the Body of
Capt. Stephen Burritt, who de-
parted this Life in the 57 year of his
age, January 24"', 169!.*

In memor}' of

3Irs. 3Iary, the Wife of Mr. Charles

Burroughs, Who departed this life

April the 13 A. D. 1777, With the

small pox in the 62 Year of her age.

In Memory of
Mrs. Bette Burton, Wife to Mr.

Ephriam Burton, departed this life,

Aug. 10, 1783 in the 55 Year of Her

Age.

Erected by Robert Coldwell, in mem-
ory of his mother,
Jane Coldwell, and sister of Joseph

Jamieson, who died Mar. 23, 1S51,

^•53-

* Mr. Robert H. Russell found this stone,
recently, in the foot-path from his house to his
garden. It was several inches under the sur-
face of the ground, and about 200 feet from the
southeast corner of the cemetery. There is no
kftowledge of, nor coniecture how it came
there. It was probably first erected at the old
cemetery.

212

History of Stratford.

Here lyes interred the Body of
Smmiel 'Casre77, who died April ye

2'^, 1707, in yo 29 year of his age.
Here lyeth y" body of
3Ir. Israeli Chaumeif, Who was

minister of y'' Gospell in this place

upwards of 38 years & dyed March

ye 14* 170I in ye sg"' year of his age.
Here lyes ye Body of
Sarah ClarL\ Wife to David Clark,

Aged iS years & )2 Ds. Died March

ye 12, 1743.
Carrie ClarJi, daughter of Myron

& Jane E. Jurson.

Here lyeth the Body of
Deborah Clarke, Wife to J. C. Senr.

who departed this life in the 61^' year

of her Age, December 14, 1705.
In Memorjf of
Edivard Laivareiice, Son of John

W. and Susana A. Close, who died

May 12"' 1843, aged 6 months and 14

days.
Da rid Coe, Died Oct. 6, 1842, aged

30 years.

Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.
Mary Elizaheth, Wife of David

Coe, Died Aug. 27, 1849,^. 37 yrs.

Into thy hand I commit my spirit ; thou hast
redeemed me, O Lord God of Israel.

In Memory of
Capt. Ehenezer Coe, Who depart-
ed this life March the 26'i> 1766, Aged
62 years.

In Memory of
3Irs. Mary Coe, Wife of Capt.
Ehenezer Coe, who departed this life.
May the 23'^ 1773. in ye 68 year of Her
Age.

In Memory of
Deac. Ehenezer Coe, who died
Aug. i^', 1820, Aged 85 years.

In Memory of
Mrs. Sarah Coe, Wife of Deac"
Ebenezer Coe, who died Oct. 15"^
1S02, aged 67 years.

In Memor}' of
SaraJi Coe, Dautr. of Mr. Ebenezer
& Mrs. Sarah Coe, who died Nov. 29"»,
1772 in y" 6"^ year of her age.

In Memory of
3Irs. Esther Coe, Wife of Mr. Josiah
Coe, who departed this life, Ocf i6"»,
1794, In the 26*'' year of her age.

Isaac Tho)npsoii, son of James and
Sally Coe, died Dec. 6, 1822 ; aged 12
yrs.

In Memory of
James Coe, Who died May 12, 1851,

JE. 70.
Sarah T., wife of James Coe, Died%
Oct. 5, 1868, Aged 87.

In Memory of
James Coe, Jr., who died, Dec. 18,
1848, ^-E. 33 yrs.

The sweet rememberence of the just
Shall flourish when they sleep in dust.

James H., son of James &; Helen
Coe, died Sept. 10, 1S52, aged 4 yrs
& 9 mos.
Suffer little children to come unto me.
In Memory of
3Ir. James Coe, Who departed this
life July 31, 1790, In the 50"^ Year of
his age.

In Memory of
IluldaJi- Coe, wife of James Coe,
who died Nov. 10, 1814, aged 75 years.
In Memory of
James Coe, the son of James & Hul-
dah Coe, who Departed this Life Sep-
tember 18, A. D. 1778, Aged 6 months
& 9 days.

Here lyes Buried y" Body of
Caj>t. John Coe, Who Died April
19, Anno Domni 1741, in y'^ Ss** year
of His Age.

Here lies Buried y** Bod}' of
Mrs. Mary Coe, Wife to Capt. John
Coe, Who died September y^ 9"^, 1731,
in y*^ 69"' year of Her Age.
In Memory of
John E. Coe, who died Nov. 8, 1827,
aged 59 years.

In Memory of
31 rs. Ennica Coe, Wife of Mr.
John E. Coe, who died Aug. 3, 1815 ;
Aged 43 years.

In Memorj' of three children of John

Ebenezer & Eunice Coe,

Sally Coe, died Oct. 31'', 180- [iSoi

or 2], aged 6 years.
3Iary Coe, died Oct. lo*"^, 1802, aged

2 years & 6 months.
Hobert Coe, died April 4^'^, 179- [per-
haps 1796] aged 3 months.
John If'm., son of John & Anna Coe,
died Aug. 4, 1S26, aged 6 months.
Sacred to the memory of
Deacon Zeehariah Coe, Who died
Aug. 8"\ 1805, JE. 73.

Also of his wife
Lei'inia Coe, who died July loth,
1805, j£. 71.

Inscriptions in the Congregational Bnrying-place. 213

Charles MortU^xev Cook, son of

Joseph & Mar\' Cook, died June 4,
1809, aged 7 )'ears & 25 days.
In Memory of
Helen Louisa, only child of Joseph
H. and Susan T. Cowdry, who was
born in New York, Feb. 26, 1839, and
died in New York, Dec. 4, 1840, Aged
I year 9 months and 18 daj-s.
In Memory of
Helen Louisa, second child of Jo-
seph H. and Susan T. Cowdry, who
was born in New York, Oct. 16, 1842,
and died in New York, Nov. 21, 1844,
Aged 2 years i month and 5 days.
Here lyes Buried y'' Body of
3Irs. Abigail Cui-tis, Wife to M""
Ebenezer Curtis, Who Departed his
life Nov""" 29"', A. D. 1746, Aged 32
3'^ears 10 months &; 25 Daj's.
In Memory of
3Lr. Ahner Curfiss, who departed
this LIFE December 19"', 1779 in the
48"^ year of his age.
O reader stop and cast an eye
As thou art now so once was I.
As I am now soon thou must bee,
Prepare for death and follow me.

Here lies the Body of
3Ir. Ahvam Curfiss, Who depart-
ed this Life September y*^ 7"", A. D.
1779, Aged 79 years.

Here lyes ye Body of
3Irs, Elizabeth Curtiss, Wife to
Mr. Abraham Curtiss, Who departed
this Life, August y** 31^*, 1770 in y"
68 year of her Age.
Anna Curtis, died Jan. 4, 1871, JE.
86 yrs.

Sacred To the Memory of
Dea. Agur Curtis, who died April
22, 1S44, in the 84"" year of his age.
In memory of
Huldah Curtis, wife of Agur Cur-
tis, & Mother of Lewis & Benjamin
Curtis, who died on the 6"" day of
June, 1858, Aged 92.

In Memor)^ of
Augur Curtiss, who died Nov. 10,
1S38, aged 81 yts.

In Memory of
3Iercjf, wife of Agur Curtiss, who
died Dec. 17, 1850, M. 90 yrs. & 7 mo.
Agur FeeTi, son of David & Amy Cur-
tiss, died Oct. 1,1810, aged 2y'rs &3 mo.
Here lyes }•' bod)^ of
Mrs. Bethsheba Curtiss, formerly
wife to Mr. Ephriam Stiles, Aged 74
years. Died Febuary y*^ 9*'', 1735.

In memorj' of
Betsey Curtiss, who died March 21,
1843, aged 52 years.

Catharine, Wife of Marcus Curtiss,
died June 17, 1855, JE. 61 years.

In Memory of
Charlotte Curtis, 'who died Mar.
13, 1866, JE. 67 yrs.

In Memory of
David Curtiss, who died Nov. i,
1819, in his 81 year.

In Memory of
3Irs. SaraJt Curtiss, Wife of Mr.
David Curtiss, who departed this life,
March 6"^, 1801, in the 60'" year of her
age.

Agur, The son of Mr. David & Mrs.
Sarah Curtiss, who died October ye 9,
1776, in y« 5 year of his age.

Your moans fond parents cease
and let this hope suffice
Your babe shall sleep in peace
till Jesus bid it rise.

Dolly Curtis, died Feb. 27, 1875, JE.
75 yrs. 10 mo.

In Memory of
Ebenezer Curtiss, who died, May
19, 1819, JE. 42.

Here lyes y" Body of
3Lrs. Buth Curtis, wife to Mr. Eben-
ezer Curtis, Departed this life. May y«
28"^, 1739 in y« 70"^ year of her age.

In memory of
3Ir. Elihu Curtiss, who died, Aug.
9, 1820, aged 79 years.

Elihu, son of Daniel Curtis, died
Sept. 23, 1820, JE. 73.

After, wife of Elihu Curtis & daughter

of Lewis Nodine, died 1S04, JE. 47.

This stone erected to their memory by

their son Alfred.

In Memorv of
Mr. Elijah Curtis, Son of Mr.

Henry & Mrs. Anne Curtiss, who died
Sept. 23'', A. D. 1776, in the 35"' year
of his Age.

Here lies inter'd the Body of
Ephraim Curtiss, Esqr., who de-
parted this Life, May 9"', 1775, in the
92'" Year of his Age, &
Elizabeth, his wife, who departed
this Life, October 5"', in the 91^* year
of her age.*

* No year is given to the death of Mrs. Eliz-
abeth ; but probably she died in 1775.

214

History of Stratford.

Here l3-es ye Body of
EpJiraini Citrfiss, son of Ephraim
Curtiss, Esq., & Mrs. Elizabeth his
Wife, Who Died Decembr 2, 1737,
Aged 20 years 3 months & 2 Days.

Here lyes y* Body of
Elizabeth Cnrfiss, Daughter of
Ephraim Curtiss, Esq., & Mrs. Eliza-
beth his Wife, Who Died July 31, 178S,
aged 8 years 8 months & 15 Days.
In Memory of
Dr. Ezra Cartiss^ who died & was
buried at Litchfield. Nov. 17, 1797, in
the 33d year of his age.
In Memory of
Hannah CUrrfis, wife of Samuel
Curtis, who died Jan. 7, 1822, aged 74
years & i month.

In Memory of
Hannah Curtis, wife of Stiles Cur-
tis, of Norwalk, & daughter of Sey-
mour C. & Hannah Whiting, who
died Feb. 8, 1S38 ; aged 35 years.

Here Ives y^' Body of
Mrs. Hannah Curtis, Wife to Mr.
Zechariah Curtis, Aged 73 years.
Died Feby I4'\ 173I [or 175I].

Henrietta Cartiss, Born Jan. 25,
1811. Died April 30, 1874.

In Memory of
jyir. Henrif Curtiss, who departed
this life. May 23'^, 1804, in the gsih
Year of his Age.

In Memory of
Mrs. Anne Curtiss, the wife of Mr.
Henry Curtiss, who Departed this
Life September 14"^, A. D. 1783, in
the 63"' Year of her Age.

In Memory of
Mr. Henri/ Curtiss, who died April
18, 1814, aged 63 years.

In Memory of

Phebe Curtiss, wife of Henry Cur-
tiss, who died Feb. 5, 1826. Aged O7
years, also

George Curtis, their son, died in
the State of Illinois, Sept. 18, 1S22,
JE. 24.

Harriet, Daughter of Mr. Henry &
Mrs. Phebe Curtiss, died June 20*'',
1793. aged 5 months.

Eliza, their Daughter, died March 7"',
1800, aged 15 days.

In Memory of
^[rs. Hepsy Curtis, who died, Feb.
10, 1832, aged 54.

Here lyes buried the Body of
Mr. HezeJxiah Curtiss, Who de-
parted this life Oct. y" 9"', 1771, in y*
64"^ year of His Age.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
3Irs. Bulah Curtiss, Dau. of Mr.
Hezekiah Curtiss & Mrs. Mehetable
Curtiss, Who departed this life Sep-
tember y^ 16, 1771, in y« 17"' year of
her age.

In memory of
3Irs. Huldah, Late Consort of Mr.
Samuel Curtiss, who was born April
i5"\ -738, & died April 28, 1765.
HuldaJi, Dau. of the above Parents,
who was born March 16"', 1765, &
died in July, A. D. 1765.

In calm repose
Their body lies
AVhen Christ appears
Their dust shall rise.

In Memory of
Mr. Isaac Curtiss, Son of Mr. Sam-
uel & Mrs. Hannah Curtiss, who died
Jan. 17, [796, ^Etat, 21.

Behold and see as you pass bv
As you are now so once was I
As I am now so you must be
Prepare for death and follow me.

Elezabeth Curtiss, wife of Isaac

Curtiss, died July i, 1797, aged 26.

In Memory of

3Ir. 'Tahez Curtiss, who departed

this life, Jan. iG"', 1829, in the go***

year of his age.

In Memory of
3Irs. Betty Curtis, wife of Mr. Jabez
Curtis, who departed this life, Oct. i,
1818, in the 75"' year of her age.
In memory of
James Curtis, who died March 22,
1821, Aged 41 Years.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
3Irs. Jerusha Curtiss, Wiie to Mr.
Stephen Curtiss, Who Departed this
Life Dec. 24"", A. D. 1747, in ye 21
Year of her Age.

Abraham Curtiss, Son of Mr. Ste-
phen & Mrs. Jerusha Curtiss, Died
Janry 23'', 174J. Aged 2 months &
12 Ds.

In memory of

John Curtiss, who died Aug. 31,

1S25, aged 80 years.

Also of

Mary, his wife, who died the same

day & hour, aged 78.

They were both deposited in the

same grave.

Inscriptions in the Congregational Burying-place. 2 1 5

3Ir. Joseph Curtiss, died Mar. 15,
1 801, aged 80 yrs.

Here lyes enter'd the Body of
Mr. fTosiah Ciirfiss, who died May
26"^, 1773, in the 71^' year of his Age.

In Memory of
3riss Eunice Curtiss, daughter of
Mr. Josiah Curtiss, who died Oct. 21-
1817, in the 53 year of her age.

In Memory of
3Ii\ Josiah Cuftiss, who departed
this life, Feb. 6*'\ 1S04, in the 70'''
year of his age.

In Memorv of
Mrs. Mary Curtiss, Wife of Mr.
Josiah Curtiss, who died May 20-1817,
in the 80 year of her age.

In Memory of
Lewis Curtis, who died, March 5,
1834, Aged 89 years.

In Memor}' of
3Irs. Hejisa Curtiss, the wife of
Mr. Lewis Curtiss, who died April 16,
1819, aged 71 years.

3Irs. Martha Curtiss, died Aug.
26, 1790, aged 77.

Mary, wife of Judson Curtiss, died
Feb. 23, 1 814 ; aged 42 years.

Judson Curtis, Son of Mr. Judson
& Mrs. Mary Curtiss, was killed by a
Cart wheel going over him Octo 4"",
1S05, aged 5 years & 10 days.

In Memory of
Neheniiah, Curtiss, who died May
13, 1810, aged 69 years.

Phebe Curtiss, Died Jan. 2, 1864, JE.
76 yrs. & 7 mo.

Here lies intered the Body of
3Irs. Phebe, Wife to Mr. Nehemiah
Curtiss, who departed this life, July
24, 1770, in the 32'"' Year of her age.

No gift of nature. Art, or Grace,
E.xempteth from the Burying place.
All must obey the solemn call.
Before that Tyrant all must fall.

In Memory of
PoJly, wife of Nehemiah Curtis, who

died Sept. 17, 1S17, aged 34 years.
Also of three Children of Nehemiah &

Polly Curtis :
Stiles, died Sept. 15, 1808, aged 15

months.
Betsey Ann, died Sept. 11, 1S13 ;

aged 6 months.
Nehemiah, died Sept. 25, 1817 ; aged

17 months.

In memory of
Kehemiah Curtis, who departed
this life, Sept. 30, 1835, JE. 6r.
Sacred to the Memory of
Anne Curtiss, Wife of Nehemiah
Curtis, Junr., who died March 3, 1804.
in the 22'' year of her age.
And of their Infant.
She lived much esteemed
And died much lamented.

Peter Pixlee, Son of Mr. Daniel &

Mrs. Betsey Curtiss, died May 10,
1817, aged 3 months.

Dea. Philo Curtis, Died Mav <;

1852, JE. 78. ' ■

In Memory of
Betsey Curtis, wife of Dea. Philo
Curtis, who died Feb. 11, 1S44, aged 68.
In memor}' of
Beheeea, Consort of William Curtiss,
Deceased, Dec. 3. 1823, aged 41 years.
In Memory of
Bejoice Curtiss, who died Oct. 11,
1S61, JE. 74 y'rs.

In memory of
Sally Curtis, Who Died May 2, 183 1,
Aged 39 years.

Eliza Curtis, Died Jan. ri, 1831,
aged 28 Yrs.

In Memory of
Capt. Samuel Curtiss, who died
•Feb. 15, 1833, aged 63 years.

In Memory of
Alice, Wife of Capt. Samuel Curtiss
& daughter of Elisha & Sarah De
Forest. Who died Dec. 13, 1859, .^.74.

3Iary Ann, daughter of Capt. Sam-
uel & Mrs. Alice Curtiss, died June
14, 1814, aged 5 months.

Erected by Capt. Curtiss In Memory
of his Daughter
Henrietta, who died Aug' 26"^, 1S03,
in the 7"* Year of her age, & of his
son Saml. J., who died Aug' 28"',
1803, aged 5 yeais.

Miss 3Iary Ann, daughter of Capt.
Samuel & Mrs. Temperence A. Cur-
tiss, died April i, 1S14, aged ig years.

Erected by Capt. Sam' Curtiss, In
memor}' of his Wife,
Temperence Anna Curtiss, who
departed this life, Aug' 30"", A. D.
1800, aged 30 Years.

In Memory of
Mr. Samuel Curtiss, who died Sept.
8"S 1802, in the 68 year of his age.

2l6

History of Stratford.

In Memor)' of
Samuel Clirfiss, who died May 19,
1826, aged 69 years.

In Memory of
Dolly Cvrtiss, wife of Samuel Cur-
tis, who died, Sept. 19, 1829, JE. 66 yrs.
In Memory of
Charles Curfiss, the beloved son of
Mr. Samuel Curtiss, Jr., & Mrs. Dolly
Curtiss, who died Janu'^ 8'^, 1793,
In the 4 year of his age.
Sleep, sweet Babe and take thy rest
God call'd thee Home he thought it best
Though to thy parents dear.

SaraJi, Wife of Charles Curtiss, Died
Nov. 25, 1877, Aged 85 yrs. 4 mo.
In memory of
3Iarij J., who died May 12, 1831,

aged 3 yrs. Also
Samuel H., died April 16, 1831, aged
I y. & 3 mo., daughter & son of Charles
& Sarah Curtis.
As you stand by this grassy tomb

In silent sorrow weep.
For two sweet infants side by side

In death's cold slumbers sleep.
So fades the lovely blooming flower

Frail smilling solace of an hour
So soon our transient comforts fly
And pleasures only bloom to die.

Charles, son of Charles & Sarah Cur-
tiss, died Sept. 3, 1833, aged 5 mo. &
23 ds.
Emilff, daughter of Charles & Sarah
Curtis, Died Feb. 11, 1S32, vE. 8 mos.
Adieu sweet baby thy stay was short
Just looked about and call'd away.

Moxaiia Peck, Adopted Daughter
of Charles & Sarah Curtis, Died April
16, 1848, JE. 23.
Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.
In memory of
Sarah, Dr of Mr. Curtiss & Mrs.
Mary.

In memory of
Mr. Silas Curtis, who died Aug. 5,
1822, Aged 72 years.

In memory of
3Ir, Silas Curtiss, who died Jan.
15, 1816, in the 74 year of his age.
In memory of
3farf/, wife of Silas Curtiss, who died
April II, 1805 ; in the 50 year of her
age.

In Memory of
3Irs. Helen Curtiss, Wife of Silas
Curtiss, Ters. Daughter of Stiles &
Naomi Judson, who died April 2'',
1801, Aged 21 years.

In Memory of
Hannah, Wife of Silas Curtiss, who
died Nov. 25, 1811, in the 65 year of
her age.

Sacred to the Memory of
Solomon Curtis, who departed this
life, July 13, 1824, JE. 76 )'ears & 11
months.
Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.

Sacred to the Memory of
Jerusha Curtis, relict of Solomon
Curtis, who died Aug. 29, 1834, aged
76 years.

O Death ! where is thy sting?
O Grave ! where is thy victorj' !

In Memory of
Jahez Curtis, son of Mr. Solomon
& Mrs. Jerusha Curtis, who died Feb.
8, 1797, JEXdiX.. 8 years,
rhy flesh disolv'd in sorrow must appear,
While here we drop ye sympathetic tear ;
The tomb shall safe retain its sacred trust,
Till life divine reanimates thy dust.

In memory of
Stephen Curtis, who died May 8*'',

1806, aged 79 )^ears.

In memory of
3Irs. Sarah Curtiss, Wife of Mr.

Stephen Curtiss, who departed this

Life, November 2'\ 1794, Aged 64 yrs.
Here lyes ye Bodj' of
Stejihen Jet son Curtiss, Son of

Mr. Stephen & Mrs. Sarah Curtiss

Who died June 17, 1760, Aged 3

Years.
Sai'ah Curtiss, died April 9, 1766,

Aged 2 Years & 8 months.
Stej)hen Jetson Curtiss died April

18, 1766, Aged 5 years & 6 mos.

Children of Mr. Stephen Curtis, Junr

& Sarah his Wife.
In Remembrance of 2 Children of Mr.

Stephen & Mrs. Sarah Curliss :
Abram Curtiss, Departed this Life

at New York, September 4*'', A. D.

1776, & Buried in Harlem Burying

place, in the 23'''' year of his age.
Betty Curtiss Departed this Life,

October 9"=, A. D. 1777, in the ii**"

Year of her age.

In Memor}' of
Cajit. Stiles Curtiss, who departed

this Life the 22' Day of April, A. D.

1785, in the 78 year of his age.
In Memory of
3Irs. Hehekah Curtiss, Relict of

Capt. Stiles Curtiss, who departed

this Lif^, July i'*, 1798, In the 89"'
Year of her Age.

Inscriptions in the Congregational Bur ying-place. 217

In memory of
Mv. Thaddeus Citvtis, Who died
Septr. 23'', 1776, in the 30"^ Year of
his age.

3Ir. Thaddeus CurfisSf who died
on his passage from Exuma and was
buried in the Sea Dec. 25, iSoi, in the
22'^ year of his, age.

In memory of

Salltj Curtis, Who Died, May 2,
1831, Aged 39 yrs.

ElizabefJi Curtis Died Jan. 11, 1S31,

aged 28 }'rs.
Andrew Dayton, died Feb. 11,

1807 ; aged 53.
Anna Dayton, Died March 23, 1869,

Aged Si yrs. & 8 Mos.

John Dayton, Died June 16, 1819,

JE. 35 years.
Defsey Dayton, died Sept. 9, 1815,

36 21 yrs.
tTemsJia, widow of Andrew Dayton,

died Jan. 7, 1847, JE. 91 Yrs.
Robert Dayton died June 16, 1816,

aged 24.

3Irs. Ruth Dayton, Wife of Mr.
Brewster Dayton & Daughter of Mr.
Abner Judson, died June 15, 1788,
Aged 26 years & 11 months.

Sarah, Wife of Wm. S. DeForest,
died March 16, 1848, yE. 30 y'rs.
Our Little
Willie, only son of A. E. & M. L.
Dudly, died Feb. 20, 1856. M. 3 mos.
How many hopes lie buried liere.
Here lyes the body of
3Ir. Ai^chable Dunlax), who de-
ceased Sept*"" 24, 1713, in ye 35"^ y,ear
of his age.

Here lies Interr'd the Body of
3Irs, Sarah Easton, Wid" of M"'

John Easton, of Hartford, who died

March )'" 10*, 1750, In the 59 year

of her age.
Charles S., son of Charles & Sarah

M. Edmond, Died Oct. i, 1843, JE. 3

and a half mos.

Sarah 31., Wife of Charles Edmond
Died Sept. i, i88i,aged 80 years.

Betsey, daughter of William & Han-
nah Edwards, died Nov. 13, 1825,
^t. 28.

Sacred to the Memory of

Anne Fairchild, Wife of Robert
Fairchild, Esqr., who departed this
Life, August 29"^, 1796, in the Ss"'
Year of her Age.

Jienjamin Fairchild, Died April

14, 1865, yE. 83 yrs. 9 mo.
Eunice Fairchild, Died Feb. 10,

1874, M. 88 yrs. lo mo.

Charles C. Fairchild, Died April
30, 1849, ^E. 30 yrs. & II mo.
In Memory of

Cornelia, Daughter of Robert & Es-
ther Fairchild, who died April ir,
1836, M. 22 yrs.

In Memory of
Frederick, son of Robert & Esther
Fairchild, who died May 9, 1862, /E.
50 yrs.

In Memory of
3Ir. Hamlet Fairchild, Son of
Capt. John Fairchild, of Durham,
who departed this life, January the 13,
1773. in y" 17"" Year of His Age.
In Memory of
Jane Emeline, daughter of Robert
& Esther Fairchild. who died, Nov.
25, 1835, ^-E. 30 yrs. 10 mo. & 4 ds.

John C. Fairchild, Died Feb. 27,
1873, yE. 67 Yrs.

3Iabel, Wife of J. C. Fairchild, Died

May 16, 1880, JE. 77 Yrs.

Here lyes the Body of
3Ir, Joseph Fairchild, Who Died

April y^ 20"", 1727, in y'' 37"' year of

His Aged.

Julia A,, Died July 10, 1S09, JE. 9
yrs.

3Iaria, Died Sept. 5, 1882, yE. 83 yrs,
Daughters of Robert & Esther Fair-
child.
Esther Fairchild, wife of Robert
Fairchild, Esq., died Dec. 19, 1819 ;
aged 43.

In merr.ory of
Lewis Fairchild, who died Sept.
4, 1826, aged 32.
Give joy or grief, give ease or pain.
Take life or friends away ;
But let me find them all again
In that eternal day.

Louisa, wife of Lewis Fairchild, Died

Oct. 16, 1867, Aged 71.
3Iariah, Daughter of Thomas & Susan

Fairchild, Died May 19, 1849, ^E. i yr.

& II mo.

In Memory of
3Iartha, wife of John Fairchild, who

died Nov. 25, ^834, JE 79 yrs. 7 mo.

& 24 days.

Here Ij^es y" Body of
3lr. Nathan Fairchild, Who died

Jany, y*^ 9"'. 1 730-1, Aged 38 years.

2l8

History of Stratfo?'d.

In memor}' of
Philip Fnirchild, who died, Nov.

8, 1S30, aged 64 years.
Philip, son of Mr. Philip & Mrs.
Charry Fairchild, died Jany 2i«', 1803,
Aged 9 months.

In Memory of
Robert Fairchild, Born Jan. 19,
1775, died July 11, 1835, JE. 60 yrs. 5
mo. & 22 ds.

" Requiescat in pace."

Hobert B. Fairchild, Died Nov.
I, 1849, JE. 34 yrs. & 6 mo.

Sacred to the Memory of

liobcrt Fairchild, Esqr., who de-
parted this Lite January 20"', 1793, In
the go"" year of his age.
In memory of

3Ir. Robert Fairchild, only son

of Robert Fairchild, Esq., and Mrs.

Anne Fairchild, his wife, who deceasd,

April 12"^, 1765, in 17*'' year 01 hisage.

In Memory of

Elizabeth FaircJiild, the only
daughter of the same Parents, who
deceased July 19, 1745 in the 3"^ year
of Her Age.

Sarali Fairchild, daughter of Cur-
tis & Mary Fairchild, died Oct. 1756,
aged 9 yrs.

In Memory of

Samuel A. Fairchild, who died
Nov. I, 1S44, JE. 24 y'rs & 10 mo.

Samuel William, son of Benjamin
& Eunice Fairchild, Born in Stratford,
March 30, 1811, Who was lost at sea,
on his passage in Steam Ship Pacific,
which left Liverpool for New York,
Jan. 23, 1S56.

Susan E., daughter of Robert &
Sarah M. Fairchild, Born July 25,
1854, Died March 19, i860.
He is titling up my mansion,
Which eternally shall stand.
For my stay shall not be transient
In that holy, happy land.

Here lyes ye Body of
Timothy Fairchild, Aged 39 years.
Died November 23, 1728.

Joseph Farr a ud, Died Sept. ' 26,

i860, JE. 64.
Anna, His Wife, Died Aug. 19, 1863,

JE. 76.

In Memor}' of
Mr. Jehiel Foot, who died Novbr.

16, 1754, In His 3i^t Year.

Here lies the Body of
3Ir. Jehiel Foot, who died Sept. y«

2*1, 1740, in the 55 year of His Age.

Joseph Foot, son of Miller & Mary
Foot; Dec^ March 26"", 1726, in y*
17"^ j'ear of his age.

Here lies the Body of

3Ir, Peter Foot, who died Decemb''

y* 8, 1753, in y'^ 56 year of His Age.

Sarah Foot, wife to D Foot,

sen. died Mar. 26, 1704, in her46*''}'ear.
Eugenia, daughter of John & Han-
nah Ford, Died Aug. 23, 1851, JE. 12
yrs. 10 mo. & 17 ds.

Bud of promise early taken,

To a more congenial clime.

Oh ! how soon thou hast forsaken.

Those who loved thee here in time.

In memory of
Mr. Stephen Frost, who died Aug.
3, 1S07, in the 61^' year of his age.

In memory of
Eunice Frost, Wife of Stephen
Frost, who died Jan. 14"^, 1807, aged
63 j^e.Trs.

Joseph Frost, son of Miller & Mary
Frost, Died March 26"', 1726, in y"
17"' year of his Age.

Wheeler Frost, Died March 2, 1S52,

yE. 79.

Here Lyes Interred the Body of
Samuel Gaskill, Who died April y''

2'', 1707, in y*' 29 Year of his Age.

Christoj>her Godfree, aged 58,
Died November 26, 1715.

3Irs. Amy Goodwin. [This is on
the foot stone ; the head stone, a fine
brown stone, is broken off and the
inscription entirely gone.]
In Memory of the

Rev. Hezekiah Gold, Who depart-
ed this mortal Life April the 22'^ A.
D. 1761, in y* 67 Year of His Age.
He was the 4"" Settled Minister in
the first Society of Stratford of the
Presbyterian & Congregational De-
nomination, & executed the Ministe-
rial office in Sd Place for more than 30
years, which he performed with Dili-
gance & an honest heart to the end of
his Ministr}'.

Here lies Interr'd the Body of

3Irs. 3Iary Gold, Consort to the
Rev''. Mr. Hezekiah Gold, who De-
parted this Life July the 2'^, 1750, In
the 48"" year of her Age.

Here lyes y" Body of

Anna Gold, Daughter to y" Rev. Mr.
Hezekiah & Mary Gold, who died
April 9'*", Anno Dom. 1739, Aged
about 4 years & 4 Mo.

Inscriptions in tJie Congregational Burying-place. 219

Here lyes ye Body of
Catee Gold, Daughter of y* Revd.

Mr. Hezekiah & Mrs. Mary Gold, who

died Sept. 30*'', Anno Dom. 1742, in

ye 18 year of her Age.

Here lyes y« Body of
Catharine Gold, Daughter of y«

Revd Hezekiah & Mrs. Mary Gold,

Who died Oct. 23"^, 1743, Aged i year

& 7 Ds.
Ann Gorham,, Died May 2, 1878,

Aged 87.
Charles B. Gorham, Died Feb.

25, 1881, Aged S3 years & 4 mos.
Eliza B., Daughter of Charles R. &

Sarah Gorham, Died June 3, 1S62, JE.

25 yrs. & 6 mo.

In Memory of
Eliza, Wife of Charles R. Gorham, &
daughter of the late Isaac Brooks,
who died May 2, 1835, aged 27 years
& 10 months.

In memory of
Capf. Isaac Gorham, who died
Feb. 14, 1820, aged 81.

Capf. Neherniah Gorham, died
Feb. 17, 1836, aged 83.

He was an officer in the army of the
Revolution, and served his country
faithfully through the war which estab-
lished the Independence of his country.

Joseph Gorham, died April 24,

1742, aged 60 years.
Sarah, his wife, died April 18, 1822,

in y" 37th year of her age.
Marij Gorham, Wife of Capt. Ne-

hemiah Gorham, died Jan. 2, 1837,

aged 74.

Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.

Lewis Walker, son of Lewis W. &

Louisa M. Gorham, died July 17, 1852,
yE. 8 mos. & 16 d's.

In Memory of
Julia Elizahefh, wife of Judson
Gorham, who died Oct. 7, 1832, aged

26 years.

Judson Gorham, Died March 2g,
1848. M.. 44.

In midst of life we are in death.
Nancy Gorham, Relict of Judson
Gorham, Died Apr. 24, 1878, JE. 65
y'rs.

In the midst of life we are in death.

In Memory of
3Iiss 3Iary Gorham, daughter of
Mr. George Gorham, who died Dec.
26, 1813, in the 70 year of her age.

In memory of
Phebe Gorham, who died July 6,
1824, JE. 65.

Also
Charity Gorham, who died Dec.
14, 1833, J£. 78:

And
George Gorham, who died Oct. 21,

1837, IE. 77.
Sally Gorham, Died April 28, 1872,
Aged 66.

Blessed Rest.

Jaines, son of Jeremiah & Sarah
Greemman, died Mar. 29, 1726, Aged
I year 7 mo. & 20 ds.

Here Lyes the Body of
Joseph Grimes, Died March y« 4"',
17x6, in y^ 25"' Year of his age.
Here lyes the Body of
Hannah Grimes, Wife to Joseph
Grimes, Died January j^** 4*'', 1715-6
in ye 22 Year of Her Age.
[A Monument.]

3Ierwin Hale, aged 58, Died at
Elizabethtown, N. J., Aug. 13, 1847,
From injuries received on the Rail
Road.

Mary, Wife of Merwin Hale, Died
Aug. 30, 1870, Aged 70.
In Memory of

Asael Hawley, who died Jan. 23,
1820, aged 25 years.

In Memor}- of

Mrs. Abigail Haivley, Relict of
Mr. Edward Hawley, who died Aug.
31^*, 1803, in the 72*^ year of her age.
In Memory of

Mr. Edivard Hawley, who de-
parted this Life January the 11"', A.
D. 1782, in the 62 Year of his Age.

Catrin Hawley, Daughter of Mr.
Samuel & Mrs. Patience Hawley, who
died in the 2'^ year of her age, Febru-
ar}-, 1696.

J. H., May 20, 1690.*

J. H., June 25, 1691.

M. Hawley, 1693.

Here L3es Buried the Body of

Mr. Daniel Hawley, who departed
this life July y' 28"^. Anno Domini,
1750 in y'^ 66"> year of His Age.
Here Ives ve Body of

3Irs. Deborah Hawley, Wife to
John Hawley, Esq., Who died Decem-
ber 3"i, Anno Domni, 1739, in ye 73*
3'ear of Her Age.

* Probably the monument of Joseph Hawley,
the first of the name in Stratford.

220

History of Stratford,

In Memory of
Mr. Ed7mind Haivletj, who died
March 2V\ 1810, Aged 55 years.
Here lyes 3'e Body of
3Irs. Elizabeth Hanley, Wife to
Mr. Daniel Hawley, who departed
this life, Jan. the 6. 1763, in y" 79*''
Year of Her Age.

Here lyes the Body of
John Hawleii, Esq., aged 63 years
and I mo. Died July 27, 1729.
In Memory of
Luci/ Hatvlet/, Refect of Edmund
Hawley, who died Aug. 31, 1S40, JE.
82 years.
This stone is erected by her son Lewis

Hawley.
Luct/, Daughter of Edmond & Lucy
Hawley, Died Nov. 6, 1822, aged 25
yrs.

Here L3'es Buried the Body of
Mr. Nathaniel Ilawleij, Who De-
parted this Life, Janry 7"', Anno Dom.
1754 in y'* 52'' Year of His Age.
In Memory of
Pairson Ilairleij, who departed
this Life, August 27, A. D. 1795, in
the 65 year of his age.

In Memory of
Mrs. Ahiah Hairley, widow and
Relect of Mr. Pairson Hawle}^ who
departed this Life, Oct. 10, A. D.
1795, in the 60"' year of her age.
Here lyes Buried y"* Body of
Mr. Samuel Hatvieij, Who De-
parted this Life, Aug. 24*'', A. D.
1734 in y** 87"' year of His Age.
Win. Hawley, Killed Nov. 26, 1842,

JE. 22.
Charles Hill, son of Charles & Sarah
Tomlinson, Died Jan. 19, 1814, Aged

5 months & 5 days.

Daniel Holmes, Son of Mr. Daniel

6 Mrs. Mary Holmes. Died May 3,
A. D., 1738, Aged I year 6 months &
21 Days.

Here lyes ye Body of
Mart/ Holmes, Dau''' of M' Daniel

& Mrs. Mary Holmes, who Died May

5"', 1738, Aged 6 years 7 months 5

days.
Mehetahel Holmes, Dau»' of Mr.

Daniel &. Mrs. Mary Holmes, Died

April 25"^, 173S, Aged 4 years & 5

Days.

Here licth y^ Body of
Mr. Nathaniel Hodson, aged 27

years, Deceased May the 6"', 1701.

3Ir. EliaMin Hough, died Jan.

3, 1822, aged 53 Years.
SaraJi Eeuns, widow of Eliakim

Hough, Died Dec. 9, 1858, aged 88

yrs. 2 mos. & 24 days.

This stone is erected in memory of
Aner Howes, Wife of Eben" Howes,

who died Oct. 20"^, 1803. in the 47*''

year of her Age.

In memory of
Ebenezer Howe, who died Jan. 16,

1832, aged 90 years.
3Iary Howe, Died Sept. 5, 1S63,

JE. 34.
Sarah Hotve, Died Oct. 2, 1861,

^.85.
Emily IToyt, Born Feb. 17, 1800,

died'Sept. 28, 1862.

" He giveth his beloved sleep."

In memory of
3Irs. Betsey Hubhell, Wife of Mr.
David Hubbell, who died March 4^'',
181 1, aged 23 Years.
Hannah Hubbard, Widow of Dan-
iel Hubbard, Died Aug.i, 1855,^. 73.
In memory of
3Irs. 3Iary Hubbell, wife of Mr.
Ebenezer Hubbell, who died Sepf
18"', 1790, JE. 67.
Sarah 3Iariah, daughter of Lewis
S. & Julia Ann Hubbell, died July 22,
1835, aged 4 yrs. and 4 mos.
In Memory of
Lovisa, wife of Roswell Humiston,
who died March 11, 1831, aged 29
years.
Sleep on dear wife & take thy rest.
Thy God has called, he thought it best.
Sleep calmly with the silent dead,
For thy blest spirit now has tied.
No joys on earth were worth thy stay.
They'll soon forever pass away,
Hut joys eternal now are thine
Far, far beyond the bounds of time
Lovisa I hope to meet you there
And in God's kingdom have a share
I hope to sing with j'ou above
The notes of everlasting love.

3Iiss Sibel Huntington, of Nor-
wich, Conn., Died April 11, 1820, JE.
78.
Erected by Jedediah Huntington.

In Memory of
Josejihine, daugh"' of Frederick &
Delia C. Hunt, who died July 7, 1S34,
JE. 2 y'rs. & I mo. Also
Frederica, died July 20, 1834, JE. i
year.
Suffer little children to come unto me, and
forbid them not, for of such is the Kingdom of
Heaven.

Inscriptions in the Congregational Bury ing-placc. 221

In Memory of
Delia C Hunt, widow of the late
Capt. Frederick Hunt, of New Ha-
ven ; & dau"' of John Thompson,
dec'd ; who died April 16, 1842 ; aged
39 years.

In thee O Lord, do I put my trust; let me
never be ashamed ; deliver me in thy righteous-
ness. Into thy hand I commit my spirit ; thou
hast redeemed me, O Lord God of truth. I will
be glad and rejoice in thy mercy ; for thou hast
considered my trouble; thou hast known my
soul in adversities.

Here lyes y" body of
tfohn Hard, deceased in y^ 63 year

of his Age.

In memory of
2i^(lorni, the wife of James Hurl hurt

and daughter of Stiles & Naomi Jud-

son, who died, March 6, 1S45, Aged

50 yrs.

In Memory of
Doi'ofJif/ Ires, formerly wife of John

Brooks, Esq., dec'd. and late widow

of Thomas Ives, Esqr., who died Sept.

12, 1S34, aged 92.

Here lyeth the Body of
Alice Jenkins, the Daughter of D.

J., Who departed this life in the 20

3'ear of her age. January 9"^, lyof.
Abel Jntleson, son to David &

Phebe judeson. Aged about 7 mo.

Died Sept. y" i8"\ 1721.
3Ir. Abner Judson, died July 16,

1814, ^t. 49.
Fanny Judson, daughter of Abner

& Elizabeth A. Judson ; died Dec. 29,

1812, yEt. 14.

In memory of My beloved husband,
Abner tJudson, who departed Nov.

22, 1867. ^E. 76 yrs. & 10 mo.
Maria, Wife of Abner Judson, Died

July 31, 1881, JE. 85 yrs. & 9 mo.
Here lies inter'd the Remains of
3Ir. Abner Judson, who Departed

this Life February y" 18'^, A. D. 1774

in y^* 43'' Year of his Age.

Here lyes the Body of
3Irs, Ann judson, wife to Mr.

Samuel Judson, Aged 19 Years & 6

months 14 days. Died March 14, 1720.
In Memor}' of
Aaron Judson, who died Jan. 31,

1835, aged 75 years.

In Memory of
Betfjf Judson, who died Oct. 2,

1815 ; in the 59, year of her age.
In Memory of
Clarissa, wife of Isaac Judson, who

died Oct. 29, 1822, aged 39 years.

[.V Monument.]
David I*. Judson, Died May 24
1869, JE. 60.

William Judson, Died Aug. 30
1868, JE. 55.

Kate ITolden, Died Oct. 5, 1857,^.

5 mos.

William, Died Mar. 5, 1869, /E. 7
mos.

Children of D. P. & E. S. Judson.
Here lyes Buried the Bodv of

Ca2)t. David Judson, Who De-
parted this life May the 5"', 1761,
Aged 67 years & 9 months.
Here lyes y* Body of

3Irs. PJiebe judson, formerly Wife
to Capt. David Judson, Who departed
this life May y'' 20"^, 1765, Aged 69
years & 2 months.

Daniel Judson, Esq., Deceased
Nov. 4, 1813 ; in the 86 year of his age.

Daniel Judson, the son of Daniel

6 Sarah Judson ; died Sept. 14, i8'5 ;
in the 14 year of his age.

Death called Daniel long before his hour ;
(How immature this sacred marble tells)
It called his tender soul, by break of bliss.
From the first blossom, from the buds of joy ;
To join the dull mass, increase the trodden soil.
And sleep till earth herself shall be no more.

Daniel, son of Daniel & Sarah Jud-
son, died Dec. 6, 1823, aged 7 years.
So break our glittering shaddows, human joys,
The faithless morning smiled, he takes his leave.

[A Monument.]

Daniel Judson, Died Oct. 4, 1847,

Aged 84.
Sarah, Wife of Daniel Judson, Died
Aug. 14, 1S57, Aged 82.
The Children of Daniel and Sarah
Judson.
Daniel, Died Sept. 7, 1815, Aged 14.
Daniel, Died Dec. 6, 1823, aged 7.

In memory of

Mrs. Elizabeth Abig a il Judson,

who died Aug. 31'*, aged 38 years ;

Also their Daughter

Betsey Judson, who died Sept. 21*',

aged 15 years ;

Also their Son
David Judson, who died Sept. 3'',
aged 8 months :

All in the year 1803.
Elizabeth Ann 3Iills Judson,
daughter of Rosswell & Sarah Judson,
died March 12"^, 1806, JE. 22 months
& II days.

Alas ! how transient all our earthly store ;
To-day we bloom to-morrow are no more.

222

History of Stratford.

[JNIONUMENT.]

n. T. Judsou, M.D., Died Feb.
23, 1S51, JE. 50.

N<(iH-f/ T. Jutlson, died Sept. 27,
1864,"^. 69.

Sara It Judson, died April 18, 1859,
^.83.

Miss Haunah Jndson, Daughter
of Mr. Abner & Mrs. Hannah Judson,
died Sepf 17, 1795, Aged 21 years &i
5 months.

In Memory of

31 rs. ITaunah fTiidson, formerly
Wife to Mr. Abner Judson Who de-
parted this Life May}-" 15, A. D. 1777,
in the 41 Year of her Age.

In Memory of
Helen Judson, wife of Aaron Jud-
son, who died May 26, 1S25, aged 56
years. Also of

Edwin fjiidson, son of Sidney I. &
Mary Ann Beardsley, who died Sept.
25, 1825, aged 5 montlis.

In Memory of
Isaac Judson, son of Mr. Abner &
Mrs. Hannah Judson ; Who died July
ye 26th^ 1772, Aged 4 years & 6 months.

In memory of
Abner Judson, son of Mr. Abner &
Mrs. Hannah Judson, Who died May
17, 1764, Aged 2 months & 17 Ds.

Here lyes Buried ye Body of
Joshua Judson, who departed this
Life, Nov. 27, Anno Domni, 1735, in
ye gs"" year of his age.

Here lyes the Body of
Calif. James Judson, Esq., Who

dyed Feby y" 25*^1, 1721, Aged 71 yrs.
Here lyes y® Body of
3Irs. BehcJcah Judson, Who Dyed

Nov. y" 5'i>, 1717, Aged 62 Years.

In Memory of
IsadC Judson, who died Nov. 5,
1831, Aged 46 years.

Here lyeth the Body of
Mr, Jeremiah Judson, Who died
in the 79 year of His Age, May 15,
1700.

Here lyes Buried ye Body of
Mr. Jerenii((h Judson, who de-
parted this life. Decern. ii"», 1759, i"
ye 26 Year of His Age.

Here lyes Burried y" Body of
Ca2)t. Jeremiah Judson, Who de-
parted this life Feb. 9, 1734, aged 63
years.

Sacred to the memory of
Josei>h Judson, and Sarah, his

wife : Joseph died Oct. 8, 1690, aged
71 years.

Sai'ffh died March 16, 1696, aged 70
)'ears. Joseph came from England
when 13 Years old in 1634 with his
father Wm. and two brothers and re-
sided in this Town :

The old monument being so effaced by
lime as 10 be scarcely ledgible his de-
scendants have erected this to perpet-
uate his memor}', in the year 18 12.

In memory of
Lewis Judson, son of Stiles & Charry
Judson, who died Mar. 25, 1837, aged
21.

In memory of
Charity Judson, daughter of Stiles
& Naomi Judson, who died Feb. 26,
1817, aged 29 years.

In Memor}' of
Lewis Judson, Son of Stiles &
Naomi Judson, who died July 9, 1815,
aged 25 years.

In memory of
N^aonii, wife of Stiles Judson, who

died June 4, 1850, JE. 91 yrs.
Stiles Judson, Died, March 10, 1834,
aged 81 years.

Sacred to the memory of
Sarah Judson, Consort of Daniel
Judson, Esq., Who died May 30"",

A. D. 1 80S, Aged 77 years.

Here lyeth Burried the Body of
3Lr. Isaac Knell, sen., who depart-
ed this life in the 57 year of his age,
November 2, 1708.

Here lieth the Body of
Lieut. Thomas Knowles, Who

Departed this Life, November 3'' 17"',

in the 57*'^ Year of his Age, 1705.
S. L., March 30, 1691.
Cornelia Augusta, Daughter of

David & Laura Lacy, Died April 24,

1850, JE. 18 Y'rs & 6 mo.

" Come, dear Saviour take me home."
I long to see thy blessed face,
To hear thy voice and wear thy crown.
The gift of thy free grace.

Short from the cradle to the grave.
Christine S,, Daughter of Francis

B. iS: Cathrine A. Lacy, Died Aug. 22,
1844. JE. 17 mo. 2 da's.

David Lacy, Born Dec. 4, 17S5,
died Feb. 9,' 1862, JE. 76 Y'rs, 2 mo.
& 5 d's.

Inscriptions in the Congregational Bury ing-place. 223

2). Augustus Lnry, Died at Vicks-
burg. Miss., October 6, 1855, JE. 26
y'r= & 4 mo.

His remains were removed to this

place, Apr. 7, 1856.

Beneath this silent marble sweetly sleeps
A Farther, friend, and husband, loved.
The memory of whose bright virtues keeps
Fond hearts prepared to meet above.

Little
Lauvdf daughter of D. Augustus &
Eliza D. Lacy, Born Aug. 22, 1852,
Died Dec. i, 1S60, M. 8 Yrs. 3 mo. &
9 d's.

A flower transplanted.

In Memory of
Francis H, Lacy, who died Dec.
26, 1847, in the 29''' Y'r of his age.

Mother
JLaura Burr, Wife of David Lacy,
Born Apr. 25, 1793, Died Nov. 5, 1S69.
JE. 76 Y'rs 6 mo. 10 d's.

JPeter Laboree, the son of James &
Abigail Laboree, died March 11, 1721.

Here Lyes Buried y* Body of
Mari/ Lanison, Daugluer of Wil-
liam & Elizabeth Lamson, Who De-
parted This life March the 3o"\ 1727,
Aged 2 Years, 3 months & 20 Days.

Jacob Lattin, Son of Benjamin &
Mary Lattin, Dec<i Novb''. y« 23, 1724,
Aged 3 months & 25 Ds.

John Hooker, son of Rev. Jackson
& Sarah Leavitt, died July 11, 1828,
aged 3 yrs. 8 ds.

In memory of
Abratn C Leivis, who died Dec. 9,
1845, JE. 68 Yrs.

In memory of
Elizabeth Leicis, Wife of Abram
C. Lewis, who departed this life Oct.
30, 1S04, aged 26 years.

In Memory of Two Children of Abram

C. & Elizabeth Lewis,
Caty, died Sept. 12"', 1803, aged 3

years & 5 months.
Charles, died Sept. 5"^, 1803, aged i

3'ear & 10 months.
Juliana^ wife of Abram C. Lewis,

died May 16, 1849, JE. 65.
Edward C, Son of A. C. & J. Lewis,

died in California, Sept. 29.

Here l3-es Buried the Body of
3Ir, Benjamin Eeivis, who depart-
ed this life, July y* 7"^, 1759, in y* 63*^
Year of His Age.

Here lyes ye Body of
Mrs. Sarah Lewis, Wife of Mr.
Benjamin Lewis, Who departed this
Life, June y" 8, 1765, in y" 66 Year of
Her Age.

In Memory of
Mr. Benjamin Leivis, who de-
parted this life. May 2. iSoo, aged 71
3-ears.

O ! welcome, welcome Death.
In Memory of
3Irs. Elizabeth Lewis, Relict of
Mr. Benjamin Lewis, who died Oct.
29"\ 1802, aged 6^ years.
Beujamin Birdscy Leivis, son
of Mr. Agur & Mrs.' Charity Lewis,
died Sept. 13"', 1805, aged 11 months.
Vouth's forward slips
Death soonest nips.

Here lies intered the Body of
Daniel Lewis, Son of Mr. Joseph
Lewis, who departed this Life, April
9''', A. D. 1775. aged 21 years if
months & 22 D.iys.

No gift of Nature, art or Grace,
Exempteth from the burying jilace.
All must obey the solemn t all,
Before that tyrant all must Fall.

In Memory of
Mr. Oeorye Leivis, who died Nov.

13, 1S15, in the Si Year of his age.
3Irs. 3Iary Leivis, wife of Mr.
George Lewis, died May 24-"', 1814,
Aged 76 Years.

In Memory of
Jerusha Lewis, wife of Stephen
Lewis, who died Feb. 12, 183S ; in
the 86 year of her age.
Jerusha, daughter of Mr. Stephen
C. & Mrs. Hannah Lewis, died Nov.
4, 1814, aged 7 months.

Here lyeth y" Body of
Hannah Leivis, the Daughter of
Mr. E. L., Who Departed this Life in
y^ 3 Year of her age, April 10, 1700.
In memory of
Mr. Joseph Lewis, who died Oct.
7, 1797, In y« 77 Year of His Age.
In memory of
Rebecca J., daughter of Abram C.
& Juliana Lewis, who died Feb. 14,
1835, JE. 9 years 8 months.
In memory of
Sarah Leivis, the beloved Consort
of Mr. Joseph Lewis, who died Feb.
20"^, 1789, in the 63 year of her age.
In memory of
Stephen Leivis, who died July 18,
1839, aged 91 yrs.

224

History of Stratford.

Charlotte A,, only Daughter of Ben-
edict & Marilla Lillingstone, Died
July 6, 1861, yE. 24 yrs. 3 mo. & 16 Ds.
This is ground
which no rude footstep should impress.

Manj H., Wife of David W. Lilling-
stone, Died Oct. 13, 1863, JE. 22 yrs.
2 mo. & II Ds.

Tread softly stranger.

In memory of Four Infant children of
EzeJxiel tC* Hamiah Lovejoy.

They died in the year of 1793, 1794,
1795 & 1S05.

Little Carrie

In memory of
Ezelxiel Lovejof/, who died April

20, 1837 ; aged 77 years.

In memory of
Clarissa Lovejoy, relict of Ezekiel
Lovejoy, who died March 31, 1839,
aged 46 years.

Theodora, daughter of Ezekiel &
Clarissa Lovejo}', died Sept. 27, 1S24,
aged 3 years & 7 months.

3Irs. Hannah Lovejoy, wife of
Mr. Ezekiel Lovejoy ; died Dec. 15,
1813 ; aged 48 years.

In memory of
3Irs. Susannah Lovejoy, wife of
Capt. Phineas Lovejov, who departed
this life. April 6'\ A.D. 1S06, ^t. 76.
Behold and see, you who pass by,
As you are now so once was I ;
As I am now so vou must be.
Prepare for death and follow me.

Ca^it. Ph ineas Lovejoy , died Sept.

21, 1S12. in the 81 year of his age.
Farewell, my offspring, left on shore,
Vou soon must pass this dangerous deep ;
Where all our ancestors are gone before ;
I hope in heaven we all shall meet.

The Grave of two sisters, only children

of DeForest and Catharine Maria

Manice, died in New York of

scarlet fever.

Catharine Maria, born in New

York, Jan. 26. 1S28, died Feb. 11,

1S30, aged 2 years & 16 days.

Mary Anne, born in Hartford, Jan.
6, 1S26, died March 8, 1830, aged 4
years 2 months & 2 days.

In Memor}^ of
Samuel 3IeAlister, Born 1S03, Died
May 12, 1852.

And also
Harriet, his wife. Born 1783, Died
Sept. 13, 1863.

Samuel Ufford McAlister, Aged
10 yrs. 1843.

A blighted flower,
A bud of fairest promise nipped
In early morning hour.

Abijah McEwen, Esq., died Dec.

1, i8i2, aged 70.

In memory of
3Irs. Catee, the virtuous and beloved
Consort of Abijah McEwen, & Daugh-
ter of Agur Tomlinson. Esqr., who
departed this Life in a glorious pros-
pect of a better ; December 28"", A.
D., 1774, ^tat. 28.
O just beloved and lost, O ever dear !
Thy memory still shall prompt the tender tear
With every virtue, every Grace adorn'd
Whatever in life is Loved, in Death is mourned.

Charles 3IcEwen, Died January 6"^,
1S36, Aged 56.

Sarah McEwen, wife of Chnrles
McEwen, died Sept. 17, 1847, aged 68.

Wni, Wallace, son of Charles &
Sally McEwen, died Aug. 25, 1815,
aged 4 years.

George V. T. 3IcEwen, Died Sept.
10, 1S82, Aged 63 years.

Jane Elizaheth, daughter of Charles
and Sally McEwan, died Nov^"" 16"",
1804, aged 10 months.

tTerusha 3IcEiven, Died April 6,
1839, Aged 82 years and 7 months.

Dr. John Befts 3IcEwen, born in
Stratford, March 31, 1S08, and died
in New York October 7, 1867.

3Iaria Catharine 3IcEwen, Died

Dec. 16, 1843, Aged 62.

In Memory of
Mary Alice 3IcEwen, Dau"" of
Mr. Abijah & Mrs. Catey McEwen,
who died April 7"", 1772, Aged 5
months.

In Memory of
Ruth 3IcEwen, wife of Samuel
McEwen, wlio died June 22'^^, 1S36,
Aged 55.

Sacred to the Memory of
Sally 3IcEiien, Wife of Samuel
McEuen. who died Oct. 20, 1S02, ^t.
23. and of their
Daughter, who died Oct. 17"', 1S02, .^Et.
17 hours.

In memory of
Samuel 3IcEwen, who died March

2, 1S49, JE. 74.

In Memory of
3Ir. Timothy 3IcEH€n, who died
Feby g"", 17S8, aged 84 years.

Jnscriptious in the Congregational Durying-placc. 225

In Memory of
Williau S. W. McE wen, who died
Aug. 17, 1833, Aged 34.
In Menior}' of
Caroline Elizabeth, daughter of
William S.& Sarah M. M'Ewen, Who
died Sept. 4, 1S2S, /E 13 Months.
This lovely bird so young and fair,
Called hence by early doom.
Just come to show how sweet a flower.
In Paridise would bloom.

In Memory of
Setiniiel Curfiss, son of William S.
& Sarah M. M^Ewen, who died July
6, 1836, yE 7 yrs.
JFiil. Samuel, son of .^bijah & Mary
Ann M'^Ewen, died Oct. 14, 1845,
aged 7 years.

In Memor}'
Geovfje ^IcCune, Son of Mr. Timo-
thy *& Mrs. Abigail M'Cune, who
Departed this Liife .April y" 6"', 176S,
in y"^ 16"" year of His Age.

Here lies inter'd the Body of

3Irs. Abigail 3Ic eime, Wife of

Mr. Timothy M^Eune, Who died Aut.

17''', 1775, in the 66"' year of Her Age.

Jane Mills, Died April 12, 1S49, JE

37-
Mr. Williani Morehouse, died of
consumption, Sept. 11, 1S32, aged 34
years.
Farewell my dear husband, he's gone
And we are destined for a while to part
I am left for to weep and to mourn —
The wound has sunk deep in my heart.

To the Memor)' of
3Iari/ 3runif Orel , daughter of B M.
ti: Harriet Mumford, of New York,
died 31 July, 1814, aged i year & 29
days.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
Mr. Hoivkins Nichols, Who De-
parted this Life Sept. y^ 13"', 1757,
Aged 29 Years, 11 months & 29 Days.
Here lyes Buried the Body of
Mr. Jonathan Nichols, Who de-
parted this Life November y"' 6"^, 1760,
in y"^ 73 year of His Age.

In Memory of
Mrs. Susan Nichols, who departed

this life, Jan'> 13"', 1792, In the ss""

year of her Age.
Josiah Nicols, June 25, 1692, [Aged]

39 7-

Here lyes Buried the Body of
Hichard Nichols, Who departed

this life, Sept. y"* 20, 1756, in y« 78

of His Age.

In Memory of
Mr. Silas Nichols, who departed
this Life Jany. 13, 1792, in tlie 55 Year
of his age.

[A MoNtlMF.NT.]

Sacred to the Memory of
3Irs. Ann Nichols, wife of George
K. Nich' Is, and daughter of Jabez H.
Tomlinson, Esqr., born on the 23''
day of January, 17S5. She died deep-
1)' lamented, on the 26 day of Febru-
ary, 1S12. aged XXVII.
She was a dutiful Child, an affectionate Sis-
ter, a constant Kricnd, a loving Wife, and a ten-
der jNIother.

Possessing an elevating and descriminating
mind. She gratefully embraced the religion of
Jesus, and living in the exercise of the Christian
Faith, she resigned this life with a well found-
ed hope of a blessed immortality, through the
divine Redeemer.

In Memory of
3Ir. Georf/e K. Nichols, who was

born Dec. 26, 1776 ; died Sept. i.

1821, near Natchez, where his remains

were buried.

An amiable and generous heart, enlivened by
the love of the divine Redeemer, endeared
himself to his numerous friends and relatives.

Elizabeth Huutinf/ton Nichols

was born on the 3'' day of February,
iSog, and died on the 9^'' da}' of July,
1S12.

She was a lovely child. She was committed
to our care, and we watched over her with the
tenderest aflfection, but we loved her, perhaps,
too well, and she was taken from us in mercy.

Here lies the body of
Josiah, Son to Mr. Thomas & M"

Sarah Olcott, who died May y« 3'^<',

1747, in the 10 year of his Age.
Sarali Olcott, wife of Thomas Olcott,

died May 11, iSii, in the 89 year of

her age.

In Memory of
3Ir. Thomas Olcott, who died May

3, 1795 ; In y'' 82 year of his Age.

Here lies Interred the Body of

3Irs. Sarah Ollcott, wife of Mr.

Thomas Ollcott, who Departed this

Life March y» 30"^. A.D. 1756, In y'

40*'' Year of Her Age.

In Memor)' of
Frederick Olmstead, who died

Nov. 9. 1826, aged 39 years.
In Memory of
3Iarjj J. wife of Frederick Olmstead,

Born Nov. 20, 1792, Died Jan. 10,

1882.
William Pixlee, son of Frederick

and Mary J. Olmstead, died Jan. 21,

1S23, aged 17 months.

226

History of Stratford.

Mr. Xormand Olmstead, died
March 28, 18 19 ; aged 43 years.
In Memory of

Marther Osborii, wife of Nathan
Osborn, who died Oct. 5"', 1803, aged

54-

Here lyes Buried y* Body of
Mr. Andrew Patterson, Who de-
parted this Life December y" 2'^', An-
no Domni 1746, Aged 87 years.
Isaac Patterson, Son of M-" John &
M" Marv Patterson : Died Feb'> I3"\
A.D. 1749; aged i year & 8 Months.
Helen T., wife of Edward Patterson,
died Feb. 5, 184S. JE 21 y" & 6 Mo.
Also their Infant daughter died Jan. 31,

184S, JE. 2 ds.
IsaJtella cC Helen T., Daughters of
Edward and Mary H. Patterson, M
5>2 mo.

Here lyes y^ body of
Parthenia Patterson , Daugh"' ol
M^ John& M''^ Mary Patterson, Who
Died Jan''>' 26"', 174^, Aged 16 Years
I ino. & 27 d".

Here lies Interr'd the Body of
Lieut. Samuel Peat, who Dec'd
Sepf the 14*'', 1747, in the 84*'^ Year
of his age.
In Memory of two Children of Capt.

John & Mrs. Mary Peck.
Elizabeth Peek, departed this Life,
Janry 30"^, 17S5, in the 5 Year of her
age.
David Brooks Peck, departed this
Life, Febry 4"'. 17S5, in the 2 year of
his Age.
Vour moans fond parents cease & Let this

hope suffice.
Your babies shall sleep in peace till Jesus bids
them rise.

In memory of
Hatinah, wife of Thaddeus Peck,
who died Oct. 5, 1815, aged 33 years.
In memory of
James Peck, Son of Dean Job &
Mrs. Bettee Peck, Who died Oct''^ 8,
A. D. 1776, in the i8"' Year of his
Age.

In memory of
Deacon tTof} Peck, who departed
this Life, September the 9'*', A. D.
1782, in the 62'' Year of his Age, and
also of
Petti/ Peck, his wife, who departed
this Life, december the 21^', A. D.
1780, in the 56"' Yc.tr of her Age.
Redeemed from Earth & pain
Ah when shall we ascend
And all in Jesus presence reign
V\ith our departed friends.

In Memory of
Mr. Job Peck, who died Feby 3,
1797, in the 44"' Year of his age.
Redeemed from earth and pain

O when shall we assend
And all in Jesus presence reign
With our departed friends.

In memory of
3Irs. Martha Peck, Wife of Mr.
Job Peck. She died Sept. 13, 1798,
^tat. 42.

In memory of
Josiah Peck, Jun^ who died at St.
Christopher's August 27"', 1809, In
the 23'' year of his age,
Also,
Sally Peck, Daughter of Mr. Joseph
Peck, who died Sept. 17"', 1809. In
the 17"" year of her age.
While our departed friends are gone,
To join the Church above.
May We Prepare to follow them,
And sing Redeeming Love.

In memor)'^ of
Leivis Peck, Son to Mr. Job & Mrs.

Martha Peck, who died June 3, 1796,

in the 12 year of his Age.
JLlice, widow of Isaac Pendleton, Died

Dec. 10. 186S ; Aged 88 yrs.
Isaac Pendleton, deceased, Nov.

10. 1824, aged 46 years.
William, Pendleton, Died Sept.

14, 1883, 36 78 yrs. 9 mos.
J. P., S. P.

Here lyes Buried y*' Body of
3Ir. David Pixlet/, Who Died

August y** I"', A.D. 1742, in y« 38"^

year of his Age.

Memory of
Mr. Peter Pi.rlee, Who Departed

this Life, Aug. 2'*, 1788, In the 86^''

Year of his age.
David Pi.rlee, son of Peter & Mary

Pixlee, died Sept. y** 18, 1751, in his

gth year.

In memory of
M7'S. 3Iary Pixlee, Relict of Mr.

Peter Pixlee, who died June 13, 1799,

aged 92 Years.

In Memory of
Mr. William Pixlee, who died

May 8"^, 1800, aged 66 years.
In memory of
Bette Pixlee, Wife of Mr. William

Pixlee. who died Sepf 27"^, 1776, in

the 40^'' Year of her Age.

And also two Children.
Bette, died Sept. 28, 1776, in the 8">

Year of her Age.
William, died Oct'' 16, 1776, in the

6"" Year of his Age.

Inscriptions in the Congregational Burying-p/act

227

Sacred to the Memory of
Mrs. liathshcbah Plant, Relict

of Mr. James Plant, late of Branford,

who died Jany 5"^, 1S03, in the 87"'

year of her age.

In Memory of
Cathrine, wife of David Plant &

Daughter of William & Phebe Tom-

linson, who was born Oct. 9, 1787, &

died June 2, 1835.
David Plant, born March 29, 1783,

died Oct. 18, 1851.
Edward, son of David & Cathrine

Plant, died May 14, 1826, se 10 months.
Mary, Wife of Henry Plant, Died

Nov. 7, i860, aged 38 years.
3Iart/ B., Wife of Henry Plant, Died

Nov. 7, 1862. aged 38 years.
John Henry, son of David & Cath-
rine Plant, died Sept. 7^'', 1815, aged

I year & 7 months.

In Memory of
Sarah, wife of Solomon Plant, who

died Sept. 15"^, 1815 ; aged 68 years.
In Memory of
Mr. Solomon Plant, who died.

May 20, 1822, aged 81 years.
Justus Platnb, Died March 17, 1845,

Aged 81.
Hlddall, His Wife, Died Sept. 19,

1853, Aged 88.

In memory of
Rebecca Poore, wife of Dr. Joshua

Poore, who died July 8, 1838, aged

Sr years.
Joshua Poor, M.D., Died 1792,

Aged 42.
Catharine, Daughter of Joshua &

Rebecca Poor, Died Sept. 7, 1868,

Aged 80.

In Memory of
3Irs. Charitf/ Pointer, wife of

Stephen Porter, who died Oct. 12,

1 81 7, aged 63 Years.

In Memory of
3Ir. Stephen Porter, who died

September 7, 1S17, aged Si years.
In Memory of
Cliarlotte Prince, widow of Wil-
liam Prince, who died Dec. 17, 1841,

aged 79 years.
James Prince, Son of William &

Grandson of Joseph Prince, of Strat-
ford, Died Aug. 4, 1876, JE. 88 y'rs.

6 mo.
Jerusha, Wife of James Prince, Died

Dec. 29, 1S73, JE. 82 yrs. 5 mo.

Charlotte Aiu/usta, Daughter of
James & Jerusha Prince. Horn May
17, 1829, Died lulv 10, 1033.
Love to her Savior, love to ull
She knew, were her last accents.

To the lovely and much lamented

Mary Abiyail, Daughter of Jaines
and Jerusha Prince, who died Sep-
tember 12"', 1S27, ai^ed 3 months and
8 days.

John Prince, Son of Mr. Joseph &
Mrs. Hannah Prince, Died Feb. 13,
1740-1, Aged 4 Yeais 4 months & 8
Days.

Here lie the Remains of

Mr. Joseph Prince, 4"' Son of
Samuel Prince, Esq'., by Mary his 2'^
Wife of Sandwich, where he was born
April I*', 1695, and Died here Decern''
4, 1747, in the 53''' year of his Age,
Much beloved and lamented.
Here lyes the Body of

Samuel Pitman, Son of Mr. Jona-
than Pitman, Deceased, May y" 18"',
1717, Aged 25 years, 3 Mo. & 13 Ds.

Mary liexford, daughter of Ilezo-
kiah & Maria Rudd, died .Aug. 17,
181 7, Aged I year 8 mo.

Mary L. Pexford, died Jan. iS,
1869, aged 80 y'rs.

Mrs. Sarah liexford, died Aug.
ir, 1831, aged So years.

Charles H. Royers, Died March
10, 1864, M. 48 yrs. 3 mos.

Harriet 3Iaria liogers, relict of
T. M. Rogers, daughter of Robert
died Mar. 19, 1847, :iged 60 years.

Laura M. Rogers, Born Oct. 13,
1855, Died, Dec. 25, iSSo.

Sophronia E. Royers, Born June
14, 1S54, Died Juneg, 1375.

Thomas Mnmford Royers, aged
63 Years.

Here Lyes Hurried y' Body of

Abiyail Rumsry, Daughter of Mr.
Beiij">" & Mrs. Rebecka Rumsey, of
Fairfield, Who Died Octb' 14, 1743,
Aged 16 years & 7 months.

Wasting sickness spoiled ve beauteous form

And Death Consignedher'to her kindred Worm.

The Dav Advances When ye saints shall Rise

With Sparkling Glory & Ascend ye skyes.

Alden Rnssell, Died Dec. 26, 1S63,

Aged 77 years.
Sarah A., Wife of Alden Russell,

Died Feb. 21, 1865. JE. 70.
"The morning cometh."

Julia E. Rnssell, Died Oct. 26, i860,
Aged 21 yrs. 4 mos. & 15 ds.

228

History of Stratford.

In Memory of
JEliphalet Bussell, sun. of Doct.
Win. & Hannah Russell who departed
this Life Mrch 26, 1776, in the 21 year
of his age.

In memory of
Betsy Bnssell, Daughter of Mr. Wil-
liam & Mrs. Jerusha Russell, who
died Sept. 28, 1790, aged i year & 11
mo.

In meiriory of
William Unssell, son oC Mr. Wil-
liam & Jerusha Russell, who died
Dec. 2, 1792, aged i year & 3 months.
Sleep, lovelv Babe and take thy rest
God called thee home as he thought best,
Though to thy Parents dear.

From the afTectionate desire of a Father

let this Stone remain Sacred to the

memory of his son,

James Saidlev, Jim., Student of
Columbia College, New York, Aged
14 Years & 9 months, who, after three
days' illness, died on his arrival here
from that city of the Pestilential dis-
disease on the ii*'' day of August,
1798.

Here lieth The Body of

Sarah Foot, Wife to D.' F. Senior,
Who died in the 46"^ year of her age,
March 26, 1704.

Elijah Sharman, died August y«
15*^1 175I1 aged 9 months.

3Ir. Benjamin Sherman,

Mrs. Behechah Sherman.

Walher, the Son of Mr. Enos & Mrs.
Abigail Sharman, April y" 6, 1751
in the 19* year of his age.

In Memory of
Charles B. Smith, who died Nov.
3, 1822, JE. 29.

In Memory of
George Smith, who died Oct. 13,
1822, JE. 73.

Sacred to the Memory of
Lttcy SmitJi,, wife of George Smith,
deceased June 26, 1813 ; ^tat. 53
years.

And of
Sarah Anna, their daughter, who
died at Huntington, Long Island,
Feb. 19, 1785 ; yEt. 6 months & 4 dys.
Here silence dwells with all her solemn train
And secrecy holds her Court explored by man
in vain.

George B. Smith, son of George &
Lucy Smith, was killed at Stratford
tide'mill, Nov. 17, 1796, JE. 15.

Grace, Daughter of L. D. & Julia E.
Smith, Died Apr. 20, 1882, Aged 4
3'ears.

Here lies Buried the Body of
3Irs. Charity, ^'ife of Mr. William
Southworth, who departed this Life,
August 15"^, 1773, in the 39* j'ear of
her age.
In calm repose her Body lies,
When Christ appears, her dust shall rise.

In Memory of
3Iercy, widow of Samuel W. South-
worth, who died Dec. 24, 1842, JE. 80
yrs.

In Memory of
Samtiel Wells Southworth, who
died Aug. 17, 1S37, aged 80 yrs.
Also his son
Samuel Wells Southivorth, Jr.,
who died at sea, A. D. 1S18, aged 30
yrs.

Sacred to the Memory of
Bdbert Southworth, who died May
17, 1814 ; aged 29 years.
Also of
Edward Southworth, who died
Sept. 18, iSi5,aged 8 years & 6 months.
In Memory of
Mr. Bohert Southivorth, who died
October 23'^, A. D. 1770 in the 22"^
year of his Age.
3Iiss Abigail Southivorth, daugh-
ter of Mr. Samuel W. Southworth.
died May 5, 181 7 ; Aged 22 years.

In memory of
Phehe Spratt, wife of Capt. Wm.
Spratt, formerly the wife of Abijah
Curtiss, who died June 28, 1834, aged
79-
Eunecia, daughter of Revd. Stephen
W. & Mrs. Eunecia Stebbins ; de-
parted this life July 4, 181 1 ; in the
27 year of her age.
Let me but hear my Saviour say
Strength shall be equal to the day
ThenI rejoice in deep distress
Leaning on all sufficient grace.
I glory in infirmity
That Christs own power may rest on me.
When I am weak, then am I strong,
Grace is my shield & Christ my song.

Eunice Sophia, Daughter of Revd.

Stephen W. & Mrs. Eunecia Stebbins,

departed this life May 4*^, 1S06, in the

19"' year of her age.

To a tender and benevolent heart, expanding
with those virtues which endear & strengthen
every social tie ; She united an apparent sub-
mission to God, & an humble trust in Jesus
Christ, which cherish in surviving friends, the
hopes of her blessed immortality.

Inscriptions in the Congregational Burying-place.

229

[A Monument.]

tTohn W. Sterling, Born Sept. 4,
1796, Died Feb. 13, 1866, JE.bq.

[A Monument.]

Mar}/ H. Sterling, wife of John W.
Sterling and daughter of Daniel &
Sarah Judson, Died June 2"', 1838,
aged 31 3-ears.

Marg Judson, daughter of John
W. & Mary R.Sterling, Died Sept. 14,
1S38, J£. 7 months.

Here lyes y" bod}' of

3Ir. E2yhraim Stiles, Aged 69
3'ears, died June y" 21, 1745.

Frances Ives, Daughter of G. W. &

S. A. Stow, Died Mar. i, 1859, ^- 8

mos. 23 Ds.
Frederick H. Stow, Died July 18,

1872, ^.58 yrs.
Susan A. Fairchild, Wife of

George W. Stow, Born Aug. 12, 1823,

Died Dec. 6, 1S73.

Susan Fairchild, Daughter of F.

H. & S. B. Stow, Died June 11, 1858,

JE. II Years, 3 mos. & 20 Days.
Here lyes Buried y^ Body of
3Ir. Joseph Strong, Who departed

this Life Sept. 22, Ann Domni, 1741,

Aged 24 Years.
Mrs. Friscilla Stratton, died

April ir, 1738, aged 86 years.
In memory of two Children of Mr. John

& Mrs. Mehetable Thacher.
Anthofiy , died the 3'^ of February,

1779. aged 7 days.
Mehetable, died the 16"^ of Jul}-, 1780,

aged 30 hours.
Solomon Thomas, Aged about 61

years, Died April 16, 1729.
In Memory of
Mr. Abijah Thompson, who died

Oct. 5, 1799, in the 61^* year of his

age.

In Memor)' of
John Thompson, Who died July

16, 1S36, JE. 73 y'rs.

In Memory of
Alice Thompson, relict of John

Thompson, who died May 14, 1862,

J£. 97 y'rs & 8 mo.

Here lyes Burried y" Body of
Mr. Ambrose Thompson, Who

Departed this Life, Sept. 7"', Anno
Doni. 1742, in the 92'"' Year of his
age.
Precious in ye sight of ye Lord is ye death of
his saints.

In Memory of
Mr. Ambrose Thompson, who de-

parted this Life the 3'' day of May
1768, In the 86"' Year of his age.
In Memory of
3Irs. Ann Thompson, Wife of Mr.
Ambrose Thompson, who departed
this Life, Sept. 22, 1774, in the 86
Year of her age.

Mrs. Bathsheba Thomx>son, re-
lict of Mr. Abijah Thompson, died
Feb. 12, 1814, in the 70 year of her
age.

Bathsheba Thompson, died Aug.
27, 1815, aged 87.

In Memory of
3Irs. Betttf Thompson, wife of
Mr. David Thompson, who died Jan.
18, 1800, Aged 44 Years.
In Memory of
3Ir. David Thomi>son, who died
April 8, 1800, In y« 82 Year of his
age.
Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord.

David Thompson died Aug. 4,

18 1 7, Aged 67 years,

And his wife,
Sarah, died Dec. 12, 1815 ; aged 64

years.

Sacred to in the Memory of
Delia Tliompson, Daughter of John
& Ellis Thompson, who died Oct. s*"",
1790, aged 12 3'ears.

She is not lost, but only gone ;

To realms of Glory & celestial peace.

Harriet Thompson, Died Sept. 21,
1874, JE. 89 Y'rs.

Jonathan, son of Ambrose Thomp-
son, Junr., & Ann, his wife, Dec*
Juneyi^ 28, 1726, Aged 3 years & 5 mo.
Here lies the Bod}' of

3Irs. Elizabeth, Wife of Mr. Eben-
ezer Thompson, who died Nov. 28"",
1747, in her 40"^ year.

Here lyes Burried y* Bod}- of

Mr. Ephraim Thompson, Who
departed this Life June 18, Anno
Domni, 1746, Aged 26 years.

3Iaria Thompson, widow of the
late Enoch St. John, of New Canaan,
Died March 3,"iS73, ^E. 83 Y'rs.

In Memory of
Mrs. Martha Thompson, the Be-
loved wife of Mr. David Thompson,
who departed this Life January 26"*,
1792, In the 74"' Year of her age.
She lived much esteemed and died much la-
mented.

230

History of Stratford.

Here lyes Buried y* Body of
Mrs. Murtha Thomjison, wife to
Dea"'" John Thompson, who departed
this life Feb"->- 7"^ Anno Dom', 1740,
in ye 63'' Year of his age.

Here lyes buried the Body of
Beacon John Thompson, Esq.,

who departed this life July y'' 20"",
1765, in y" 85 Year of His Age.

Here lyes y*" Body of
Saniuel Toinj)!<on, Son of Mr. Am-
brose & Mrs. Anne Tompson, Who
Departed this life, Feby 19'", Anno
Dom 1749-50, in y" 29"^ Year of his
age.

Here lyes v'' Body of
3Irs. Sarah Thomjison, Wife to
Mr. Ambrose Thompson, Who De-
parted this Ufe Mar. 23'', 1730, Aged
About 71 Years.

Sacred To the Memory of
Lieuf. Williani T]ionij)Son,Vfho

fell in battle, bravly fighting for the
liberties of his country, in the mem-
orable action at Ridgefield, on the
27*'' of April, 1777, where a handful
of entrepid Americans withstood some
thousands of British troop till over-
powered by numbers, he fell a victim
to the British tyranny, and more than
savage cruelty in the 35"' year of his
age. He lived greatly beloved, and
died universally lamented, and his
body being removed from the place of
action, was here deposited with mili-
tary honors.

Relettered in 1864.

In Memory of
Caj)t. Williani Thomjison, who

died at sea. Dec. 14, 1812, aged 47
years. Also of
Edivai'd, son of Capt. William & Mrs.
Phebe Thompson, died, Sept. 30, 1815,
aged 10 years.

Isaac, son of Mr. William & Mrs.

Mehetable Thompson, who departed

this Life Aug. 20"', A.D. 1775, aged

7 years 5 months.

Ye Young, ye gay, attend this speaking stone,

Think on his fate and tremble at your own.

In memory of
Phehe, widow of tly; late Capt. Wil-
liam Thompson, who died April 27,
1844, in the 80"' yr. of her age.

Mary Thoin2>son, daughter of Wil-
liam & Phebe Thompson, died Oct.
28, i860, JE. 69.

3Iiss Huldah Tibbals, died Oct.
22, 1823, aged 58 years.

The soul of a sister is gone

To brighten the triumph above ;

Exalted to Jesus' throne,

And clasped in the arms of his love.

Abraham TomJinson, died April,
1S21, aged 88 Years.

Anna Tondinson, relect of Abra-
ham Tomlinson, died May 5, 1827,
Aged 85.

In Memory of

Anna Tondinson, daughter of
Abraham & Anna Tomlinson, who
died July 28, 1799, aged 17 years.

In Memory of
Sarah Tondinson, daughter of

Abraham & Rebecca Tomlinson, who

died March 24, 1813, in the 53 year of

her age.
SatJisheba Tondinson, died Aug.

27, 1815, aged 87.

Here lyes Buried y" Body of
Lieut. Affur Tomlinson, Died

March 5, 172I in y* 70 year of his age.

Here lies Intered the Remains of
Affiir Tondinson, Esq., who de-
parted this Life, February the is"",
A. D. 1774. in the 53'' year of his age.
You pass with melancholy state
By all these solemn heaps of fate.
And think as soft as sad you tread above

the Venerable Dead,
Time was like you Life possess'd
And time will be when you shall rest.

Doct. Charles Tomlinson, died

July 10, 1830, aged 55.
Sarah H. Tomlinson , Wife of Dr.

Charles Tomlinson, Died March i,

1858, aged 77.
Charles Hill, son of Charles & Sarah

Tomlinson, died Jan. ig, 1814, aged 5

mos. & 5 ds.

In Memory of
3Ir. George Tondinson, who was

born June 29, 1796, and died June 19,

1824.
Gideon Tondinson, was born in

Stratford, December 31, 1780, and

died at Greenfield, October 8, 1854.

He was admitted to the Bar and commenced
the practice of Law at Greenfield in 1807 ; was
successively a member of the State Legislature ;
Speaker of the House of Representatives •
Member of Congress, Governor of the State of
Connecticut, and United States Senator ; at the
close of the last named term of office he volun-
tarily retired to private life. Amiable and up-
right, an affectionate husband and fond father,
happily exemplifying Christian piety in life,
and dying, supported by the hope which it in-
spired.

Inscriptions in the Coiigregational Bnrying.place.

231

Sdi'uTl, the beloved wife of Gideon

Tomlinson, died December 25, 1842,

in the 56 j-ear of her age.

Her affectionate kindness, enlightened mind,

good principals, sincerity & many endearments

& virtues, made her worthy of love, respect &

confidence. The loss of her endeared society

was deeply felt and lamented by her bereaved

husband, but he derived comfort from the hope

and evidence that, while she realized the decay

of her body & mourned for their darlinfj son,

in devout submission to the will of God, she

was mercifully brought to exercise faith & trust

in Christ.

Juhez Hnntingtoti Tomlinson,

the beloved, loving & only son of
Gideon and Sarah Tomlinson, was
born June 28, iSiS, and died of con-
sumption, April 21, 1838 in New York,
where he had recentl}' arrived from
Charleston with his deepl}' afflicted
parents.

The rememberance of his promising and im-
proved talents amiable disposition, sound judg-
ment, e.xemplary virtues and endearing deport-
ment, is warmly cherished, while his patience
in a long sickness and the disappointment of
earthly expectations, his solicitude for the hap-
piness of others ; penitence and faith, hope and
trust in God aflFord consolation, under the
mournful & trying dispensation of an all-wise
just, merciful and holy Providence.

In Memory of

Mrs. Hannah Tomlinson^ Con-
sort of Capt. Gideon Tomlinson, &
Dautr. of Colo. Jabez Huntington, of
Windham, Who departed this Life,
December y'' 26, 1762, in y^ 27"^ Year
of Her Age.

In Memory of

Capt. Gideon Tomlinson, Who
departed this Life January the ig"',
1766, in y« ss"' Year of His Age.
He was an officer in y'' army & fought
in y« battle at }•"' Narrows ; was at y'
Taking Ticonderoga, Crown Point,
La Callette and Montreal.

In Memor}' of
3Iiss Hannah Tomlinson, who

was born Jan. 16, 1783, and Died
April 2, 1S27.
Htildah Tomlinson, Born May r,

1766, Died Sept. 16, 1844.
Blessed are those servants whom the Lord when
he cometh shall find watching.

In Memory of
Dr. Hez. Tomlinson, A. 31., a

learned and eminent Physician, who
departed this Life on the 12"^ day of
May, A. D. 1781, in the 34 year of his
Age.

He lived much esteemed and died greatly
lamented. Vain World, farewell to you. Heav-
en is my native Air, 1 bid my friends a short
Adieu, Impatient to be there.

In memor}' of
Anna, the Daughter of Dr. Hezekiah
& Mrs. Sarah Tomlinson, who de-
ceased July 2. 1781 in the 3'' year of
her age.

Happy the Babe

Who's priviledged by Fate

To shorten labor

And lighten weight.

In memory of
Jahez ir. Tomlinson, Esq., who

died January 14, 1849, ^E- 89.

He was highly respected as a patriotic officer
01 the revolutionary army and an experienced
able and upright legislator and magistrate"
and deservedly honored and beloved as a friend'
husband, father & Christian.

In memory of
Mebecca Tomlinson, the Wife of
Jabez H. Tomlinson, who was born
on the 3 day of Dec. 1761, & died on
the I day of Jan. 1823, deeply & justly
lamented by her afflicted husband &
bereaved children.

Let those who delight to cherish the remem-
tierence of her unwearied and constant affec-
tion, imitate the pious example of one. whose
active and unshaken faith, in the Divine Re-
deemer, affords just ground of confidence that
she has gone to possess an inheritance incorrupt-
ible & eternal in the heavens.

In Memory of
Ca^if, Joseph Tomlinson, who

departed this Life Oct. 5'^, i-]-]^^.

Aged 50 years.

In Memory of
Elizabeth Tomlinson, Relict of

Capt. Joseph Tomlinson, who died

July 28"', 1809, aged 80 years.
3Iari/ Tomlinson, Born Jan. 27,

1772, Died Dec. 19, 1S61, Ninty Years.

We know that when he shall appear, we
shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.

In memory of
3Irs. 3Iary Tomlinson, Consort
of Capt. Gideon Tomlinson, Who De-
parted this Life, Juney" 7<'', 175S, in
ye ge"" Year of Her Age.

In Memory of
3Irs. 3Iarij Tomlinson, Relect of
Augur Tomlinson, Esq., who died
June 23'', 1802, in the 79 year of her
age.

In Memory of
William Agar Tomlinson, an
eminent Physician who Departed this
Life on the 20"' day of August, A. D.
1789 in the 27"' Year of his Age. He
lived much esteemed and greatly la-
mented.

Christ ray Redeemer lives
And freely I can trust
My naked soul into his hands
When parted from its dust.

2 t2

History of Stratford.

In Memory of

Mary Alace, the Daughter of Agur
Tomlinson, Esq-- and M" Mary his
Wife, who died October 8"^, A. D.
1771, Aged 5 years and I month, & 5
other infant children of the above
Parents, Who lie here interr'd.

Sleep lovely Babes and take your perfect rest.

God called you home because he thought it
right.

In memory of
PJiebe Tonifinson, widow of Dr.
William Agur Tomlinson, who died
March 11, 1842, Aged 76 years.

Here lies Hid in this Grave the Body of
Jlrs. Bebekalt, the amiable Consort
of Abraham Tomlinson, Esqr., who
Departed this Life on the first Day of
Novem''^ 1774, in the 39"> year of her
age.
I have been what thou art now, and are what

thou Shalt shortly be.
How Loved thou valued once, avail me not to
whom Related or by whom begot, a
heap of Drift alone
Remains of me, 'tis all I am, and all that you
must be.

In memory of
Itachel E., widow of John Tomlin-
son, who died Sept. 21, 1841, aged 74.
Susan Tomlinson, wife of William
A. Tomlinson, and daughter of Joseph
&Susannah Walker, died Mays, 1826,
aged 33 years.

In memory of
Mr. Step] ten Tomlinson, son of

Capt. Joseph & Mrs. E. Tomlinson,
who departed this Life Oct. 27, 1774,
Aged 25 Years.
Susan Wftlher, daughter of William
A. & Susan Tomlinson, died Sept. 23,
1822, aged I year & 6 months.

[Monument.]

Williani A. Tomlinson, died in
New York, Dec. 19, 1837, in the 49"*
Year of his age.

Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright,
for the end of that man is peace.

Susan Walker, Wife of Wm. A.
Tomlinson, died May 5, 1S26, JE. 33.

Susan Walker, daughter of W. A.
& S. W. Tomlinson, died Sept. 23,
1822, Aged I y'r & 6 mo.

Eliza liussell, wife of Wm. A. Tom-
linson, died Sept. 13, 1S62, yE. 74.

In Memory of
Mr. Zachariah Tomlinson, who

Departed this Life on y"^ 15"' day of
April, Anno Domni, 1768, in y" 75"'
Year of His Age.

Here lyes y*' Body of
Mrs. Hannah Tomlinson, Wife
of M'' Zachariah Tomlinson, who de-
parted this life, Octo^"" 5"", 1740 in y«
37 year of her age.

Elijah JJffoot, died March 28, 18 14,
aged 68 years.

Here lies the Body of
Lieut. Samnel Ujfoot, who died
Dec' y^ 30, A. D. 1746, in y« 77 year
of his Age.

In Memory of
Mrs. Abigail Ufford, wife of Mr.
Samuel Ufford ; who died Dec. 3,
1817 ; aged 73 years.

In memory of

Anne, Wife of Elijah Ufford, Who

died April 24, 1810, aged 62 years.

In memory of
Alice Ufford, wife of William Uff-
ord, who died Oct. 27, 1819, aged 36
years.

In Memory of
Benjamin Uff'ord, who died March,
1 8 10, aged 68 years.

And of his wife,
Elizabeth, who died July 1824, aged

78.
JBetsey Ufford, Died August 20,
1837, Aged 25 years.

Catharine Uff'ord, Died Oct. 21,
1866, Aged 85 yrs & 6 mos.

In Memory of
Benjamin ZTff'ord, who died July
12, 1844, Aged 73 yrs.

In Memory of

Caty, wife of Benjamin Ufford, who

died Sept. 22, 1S31, in her 61 year.

Henry Uff'ord, Died Nov. 30, 1S31,
yE. 44 Yrs. 4 mo.

Hannah Jerotne, His Wife, Died
Feb. 2, 1S79, JE. Si yrs. 5 Mo.

Bev. Hezekiah Gold Ufford, Died

January 23, 1863, Aged 84 yrs.
" Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give
thee a crown of life."

Julia, Wife of Hezekiah Gold Ufford,
Died May 5, 1864, JE. 76 yrs.
" Blessed are the pure in heart, for they
shall see God."

Isaac Ufford, Died Dec. iS, 1836,
JE. 52 years.

Phebe Datjton, wife of Isaac Ufford,
Born Aug. 8, 1785, Died Aug. 11,

1872.

Inscriptions in the Congregational Biirying-place. 233

Louisa J., Daughter of Henr}' J. &
Lucy L. Ufford, died April 13, 1863,
aged 15 yrs. & 6 mo.

Too fondly loved
Too early lost.

Lticy L., Wife of Henry J. UfTord,
Died April 8, 1861, J£.. 41.
O Mother dear thy pains are o'er
Thou ne'er shall sigh nor weep no more,
Thy spirit dwells among the blest,
In heaven thou shall forever rest.
VV'e've laid thee in thy narrow home.
Until the resurrection morn,
Till Christ shall bid the sleepers rise,
To dwell in mansions in the skies.

In memory of
JPhebe, wife of Benjumin Ufford, who

died Sept. 21^*, A. D. iSio, aged 37.
Caroline^ their daughter, died Sept.

3', 1803, aged I year & 8 months.
Cothfii'ine, Daughter of Benjamin &

Phebe Ufford, Born Dec. 9, 1801,

Died Mar. 21, 1880.

In memory of
Samuel Ufford, who died Dec. 21,
1824 ; in his 54 Year.

In memory of
3Ii's. SusannaJi Ufford, wife of
Samuel Ufford, Jur., who died Dec.
29, 1817, .'Et. 43.

In Memory of
Dea. Samuel Uff'ord, Who was

born Feb. 27, 1749, and deceased Dec.
10, 1822 ; in the 74 3'ear of his age.

In Memory of
Sophia, Daughter of Elijah Ufford,

Jun., who died Sept. 18, 1S03, aged i

}-ear & 4 months.
Susannah & Hezekiah Children of

Samuel & Susanna Ulford.
Susannah, died Dec. 23, 1801, in

the 4*'' }-ear of her age.
Hezekiah, died June 3, iSoi, in the

4* day of his age.

In memory of
William Uff'ord, who died May 29,
1848. JE. 70 yrs.

In Memory of
Abigail, wife of William Ulford, who
died Dec. 5. 1848, JE. 62.

Here lyes the Remains of
Deliverance Wahlin, who departed
this life in the 57 year of his age,
November 6, 1707.

Sacred to the memory of
Ann Brasher Walker , who de-
parted this life Jan. 12, 1837, aged 46.

[A Monument.]

Joseph Walker, Died Aug. 12, 1810,

Aged 55 Years.

He entered the American Army in the year
1777, & served his country in the several grades
of office, from a Captain to a Major General.

Jonathan Otis Walker died Oct.
27, 1821, aged 36 years.

3Iari/ Ann, Wife of Jonn. Otis Wal-
ker, Died Nov. 23, 1867, Aged 72.

Susanna, relict of Gen. Joseph Wal-
ker, died Oct. 20, 1822, aged 70 years.

Joseph Walker, son of Joseph &
Susannah Walker, died on the 18"' of
March, 1803, in the 13"' year of his
age, of a fracture in his scull, occas-
ioned by a fall from a horse, Jan. 10"^,
1803.

Here lyes Buried ve Bodv of

Mrs. 3Iary Walker, Wife to Mr.
Josiah Walker, who departed this Life
Jany y" s"", A. D. 1745, or 6 in y^ 24*''
year of Her Age.

3Irs. Eunice, Relect of Capt. Wil-
liam Walker, died Dec. 28, 1832 aged
64 years.

Caj)t. William Walker, died Dec.
5"^, 1S30, aged 62 years.

[A MONCMENT.]

Hobert Walker, Esq., Died Novem-
ber 7. A.D. 1810, .'^ged 64 years.
In private life his deportment was in the high-
est degree exemplary. The urbanity of his
manners, the amiableness of his Disposition,
and the tjencvolence of his character, were pre-
eminently conspicuous. He was kind, courte-
ous and charitable ; ardent in his friendships,
and forgiving in his resentments. To his strong
intellectual powers, were united a quick dis-
cernment and a discriminating judgment. He
was honored with many civil offices, the duties
of which he discharged with an unwavering
iidelity. He was a firm believer in Christianity
and a powerful advocate for good morals, An
affectionate Husband and tender Parent.
Here also lies mingled with the same
earth the dust of
3Irs. 3Iargaret Walker, relict of
Robert Walker, Esq., who died Feb.
6, 1819, aged 66 years.
[A Tablet of sandstone with slatestone
inlaid.]
In Memory of the
Honble. Bohert Walker, Esq.,
Who departed this Life, July 13, A.D.
1772, ^tat 68.

He sustained many important offices in civil
Life. For many Years before and at the time
of his Death, He was one of his Majesty's
Council for the Colony of Connecticut, one of
the Judges of the Superior Court, and a Colo-
nel of the Militia ; all which offices he discharg-
ed with Fidelity and honor. He firmly believed
and Conscientiously Practiced the Christian
Religion ; was a kind Husband, a Tender Pa-
rent, and faithful Friend.

234

History of Stratford.

Mrs. Heheckali Walter, Relict of
Honble Robert Walker, Esqr., died
Feby 28">, 1805, in the 8q"^ Year of
her age.

Bobert Wm. Walker, Died May
8, 1852 ; Aged 59.

Here Lves Buried Ye Bodv of

3Ir. Bobert Walker, Who Depart-
ed this Life, April y'' ist Anno Domni,
1743, in y" 75"" Year of His Age.
In memory of

Mrs. Abigail Walker, the beloved
Consort of Mr. Robert Walker, Junr.,
Who departed this Life June 25"^,
1769 in the 25"' year of her Age.

Joseph Walker, Son of Robert
Walker, Esqr., by his wife Rebeckah,
who died the 8''' day of Maj-, A. D.
1752, aged 9 years, five months & 27
Days.

C'a2>t. William Walker, died in
the service of the United States at
Burlington, Vi., Dec. 31, 1812, aged

29-

In Memory of
Anna Wells, Wife of James Wells,

who died April 9, 1831, aged 77 years.
Two Children, daughters of Nathan and

Mary R. Wells.
Catharine Jane, died March i,

1806, aged 16 days.
3Iari/ Buggies, died Sept. 2, 181 3,

aged 2 years & 5 months.
In Memory of
3Irs. Charity Wells, y" daug"" of

Mrs. Comfort Wells, and Sister to the

wife of Jabez Curtis. She Departed

this Life July 29"\ 1783, in the 42''

Year of her Age.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
3Ir. David Wells, Who Departed

this life April 25"'. Anno Domni,

1742, Aged 43 Years.

In memory of
Hannah Wells, who died April 19,

1806, aged 55 years.
31 rs. Jlepsa Wells, wife of Mr.

John Wells, died Sept. 9, 1815, in the

26 jear of her age.
Xathaniel B.,\.\\e'u son, died August

30, 1815, ^t. S weeks.

In memory of
3Ir. Isaac .lad son Wells, Who

Departed this Life, April ig'*", 1772,

in y* 62 Year of his Age.
3Ir. Isaac Wells died Feb. 27, 1814,

in the 62 year of his age.

In Memory of
James Wells, who died August 2,
1821, in his 74"' year.

Here lyes Buried y" Body of
Capt. John If ells. Who Departed
this Life February 17*'^, Anno Domni
1735. Aged 59 Years.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
3Ir. John Wells, Who Departed
this Life February y* S"', Anno Dom-
ni, 1753, in }" 40 Year of his Age.

In Memory of

3Irs. Comfort Wells, Wife to Mr.
John Wells, who departed this Life,
February g, 1790, In the 73 Year of
her Age.

In memory of

3Ir. John Wells, Son of Mrs. Com-
fort Wells and only Brother of the
Wife of Jabez Curtis & beloved friend
of Phebe Gorham, who Departed this
Life, Jany 14"'. A. D. 1789, in the 41''
Year of his Age.

Here lyes Buried y*^ Body of
Mrs. 3Iay Wells, Widow of Capt.

John Wells, Who Departed this life

Jany b^^. Anno Domni 1743, Aged 64

Years.

In memory of
3Iarg Wells, Relict of Benjamin

Wells, who died May 24, 1796, aged

68 Years.
Mrs. 3I0II1J Wells, wife of Mr.

John Wells ; died Jan. 29, 1814 ; aged

46.

In memory of
Nancy Wells, who died Nov. 2g,

1835, in the 60 year of her age.
3Ii's. Eunice Wells, relict of Mr.

Nathan Wells, died April 12, 1816,

aged 87 years.

In memory of
Lieut. Nathan Wells, Who De-
parted this mortal life on the 20'^ of
iVIay, Anno Dom. 1776, in the 4g''^
year of his Age.

Think of your friend lies buried here,

And view your transient state ;

Bestow at least one pious Tear,

And with Submission wait.

E'er long this melancholy scene.

Shall on your hearse attend ;

With haste employ the Space between.

To make of God a Friend.

In Memory of
Miss Phebe, Daughr of Mr. Stephen
& Mrs, Mary Wells, Who Departed
this Life, Sept. g, 1775, in the lo"'
Year of her age.

Inscriptions in the Congregational Biirying-placc.

235

In memory of
Mr. Samuel Wells, Jr., who de-
parted this life, Sept. 9"', 1804, aged
39 years.

In memory of
Lieut. StepJien Wells, who depart-
ed this life April 4, 1799, in y'' 58 year
of his age.

In mem or}' of
3Ir. TJionias Wells, who departed
this Life, Sept. 23'', 1791, In the 74*''
year of his Age.

Here lyes Buried v'^ Body of
3Ir. William Wells, Who depart-
ed this life Nov. i, Anno Domni, 1745,
in y® 30* Year of his age.

[A Monument.]
This monument, erected by Robert M.

Welman, of New York.
Sacred to the memory of his much be-
loved wife,
Catharine Rebecca Welman,
who left this sublunary sphere July
2'', 1804, JE. 22 years, 7 months and
II daj's.
Pause Gentle traveler,

Was her matchless worth
To thee in happier moments known?
Then pour the tide of sorrow forth,
And in her fate lament thine own.

But didst thou not her virtue know,
Still let thy tears her death attend
And mourn that midst a world of woe
Thou wert not lovely Catharine's friend.
Deep the sleep of death ! low the pillow of dust.

Catharine M. Wefmore, relict of
Victory Weimore, died Oct. 14, 1859,
JE. 86.

Sacred to the Memory of
Victor If Wetniore, Esq., who De-
parted this life, March 10, 1817 ; ^Et.
50.

In Memory of
Charles Joseph Wetniore, who
died the 17 of July, A. D. 1S16, in the
37 year of his age.

Mev. Izrahiah Wetmore, died
Augt. 3'', 1798, in the 70"" Year of
his age, and 45*'* year of his ministry.

Mrs. PJiehe Wetniore, Consoit of
Revd Izh. Wetmore, and Daughter of
Robert Walker, Esq., died Septr. 12'*',
17S4, in the 45*'' year of her age.

In Memory of
Victory, son of the Revd Izrahiah
Wetmore, and Phebe Wetmore, his
wife, who Deceased Novem"" 1762, in
the 3'i Year of his Age.

In Memory of
Rebecca, Daughter of the Revd. Izra-
hiah Wetmore, and Phebe Wetmore,
his wife, who deceased Deer, i, 1760,
Aged about 10 months.
Light as the Summer's tiust we take in air
A moment's giddy flight and fall again
Join the dull mass, increase the trodden soil.
And sleep till earth herself shall be no more.

In Memory of
Mrs. Tryphena Whet more, Dau"^
of Cap' Hezekiah Wetmore, of Mid-
dletown (Deceas'd), Who departed
this mortal life on the 11"' day of July,
1772, in y 22'^ year of her age.
The Souls the only thing we have
Worth an important thought.
The soul is of the immortal kind
Ne'er formed of Fire, or Earth, or Wind
outlives ye mouldering corpse & leaves
ye globe behind.

3Irs. Charity, relect of Mr. Elna-
than Wheeler, died March 6, 1816, in
77 year of her age.

In Memory of
3Iiss Charity Wheeler, Daughter

of Mr. EInathan and Mrs. Charity

Wheeler, Who died May i^*, 1797, in

the 28"! Year of her Age.
Charles M., died June 17, 1812, JE.

7 years & 5 months.
Nelson, died June 28, 1817, JE. 8 years,

Sons of John & Avis Wheeler.
Elisha Wheeler, died May 5, 1853,

Aged 81 years.

In memory of
Dorothy, Wife of Elisha Wheeler,
who died Jan. 12, 1847, JE. 71 Years.
Here Ives Buried y* Bodv of
3Irs. Elizabeth Wheeier, Wife to
Nathan Wheeler, Who Died Jan. 22,
Anno Domini, 1739-40, in y" 51"
Year of Her Age.

In memory of
EInathan Wheeler, Jr. He died
Nov. I**, 1805, aged 39 years.
The sweet memory of the just
Shall flourish when he sleeps in dust.

In Memory of
3Ir. EInathan Wheeler, who died

Feb. 14, 1809, In the Gg"" year of his

age.

Here lyes Buried the Bodv of
Deacon EInathan WJieeler, Who

Departed this Life. March the 14"^,

1761, Aged 58 Years.
EmiliJ Curtis, Daughter of Ezra &

Emily Wheeler, Born Oct. 4. 1852,

Died' Aug. 28, 1872.

236

History of Stratford.

Edtvard,son of Ezra & Emily Wheel-
er, Died Nov. 10, 1865, JE. i yr. & 6
mos.

George WJie€ler,died July 16, 1S35,
aged 35, also,

31<iry C.» daughter of George & Bet-
sey C. Wheeler, died July 29, 1833,
JE. 2 yrs. and 7 mo.

tT. W., 1694. [Perhaps Joanna Wheel-
er, youngest dau. of the i^' Moses.]
In memory of

3Irs. Jetinetf wife of Mr. David
Wheeler and daughter of Capt. Dan-
iel and Mrs. Betsey Booth, who died
Oct. 29, 1817, aged 23 years.

Here lyes intered The Body of
Mary Wheeler, Who Departed this
Life in March the 4"' day in the year
1726, and in 17"" year of her age.
Here l^es y'' Body of
Mrs. Martha Wheeler, Wife to
Mr. Elnathan Wheeler, Who departed
this life August the 5"', 1764, Aged
64 Years.

In Memory of

Miss Martha Wheeler, who died

Aug. 14, 1827, aged 63.

1694

J. W.

February y" 17.*

Nathaniel Wheeler, died May 19,
1819, yE. S5.

3rrs. HacJiel Wheeler, wife of Mr.
Nathaniel Wheeler, Died Sept. 15,
1S14 ; aged 81 years.

Here layes the Body of
Nathan Wheeler, Who Departed
this life, January the 31, I72f, In 19
year of his Age.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
Mr. Nathan Wheeler, Who de-
parted this life Nov. y« 7"^, 1765, in
ye 86"! Year of his Age.

In Memory of
Capt, Samuel WJieeler, who died
June 2, 1815, in the 57 3'ear of his
age.

Our Mother Rests.
Betsey Haivley Wheaton, Died
Aug. 17, 1872, In Her 85"' year.

Anna M.^ Daughter of David & Jane
E. Wheaton, died June 20, 1863, JE.
16 yrs. & I mo.

* This Stone is at the left side of Moses Wheel-
er's.

Inscriptions in the Congregational Bnrying-place.

237

WHOPEBARirDTO.

\^ ■■ I

BO,

In memory of
Mary WhijtpO, who died Jan. 23,
1812, aged 53 years, and of her late
husband, Isaac }y hi2ypo, who

died in New York, July 6, 1807, aged
— years, also of their two sons John
& Charles.

John died in the Island of New Prov-
idence, June 30, 1799, aged 17.

Charles went to sea Aug. 1807, at 23
3'ears of age and has not since been
heard from.

In Memory of
3Ir. Epiiraiui Willcoehson, Who

died July 21, 1S06, Aged 78.
In memory of three Children of Elna-

than & Sarah Willcoxson.
Isaac, died July 14, 1783, ^t. 5 years.
EUas, died July 3, 1783, ^t. 3 years.
Sarah, died July 12, 1783. ^t. 8

months.

Here Lyes Buried y'= Body of
Lieut. John Willcoehson, Who

Departed this Life, Sept. 12"", Anno
Domni, 1748, in y'= Gs"" Year of His
Age.

Here lies the Body of

Lucy Willcoehson, Daughter of
Lieut. Ephraim & Ruth Willcockson,
died June 9"', A.D. 1784, in the 28"'
Year of her age.

Sacred to the Memory of

Mrs. Suth Willcockson, Consort
of Lieut. Ephraim Willcockson, Who
departed this Life, July 30, 1801, In
the 74"' Year of her Age.
In memory of

Ruth ^H/i, daughter of Col. Ephraim
J. & Mrs. Mary Wilcoxson, who died
Sept. 22, 1S15, aged 6 years.
In tnemor}- of

Samuel O. Willcoehson, who d'ltd.
June 7, 1804, ^-Et. 34.

238

History of Stratford.

Here lies the Body of
SuniuelWillcochson, who departed
this Life August 19, A. D. 1783, in
the 59"" year of his Age.
The Woman's Seed shall bruise the Serpent's

Head,
And Christ shall raise his servants from the
Dead.

In Memory of
Chester G. Whiting, who died

Aug. 19, 1847, JE. 25 yrs. & 6 ms.
HannaJi, wife of Seymour Whiting,

Died Sept. 25, 1846, JE. 78 yrs. & 3

mo.
3Irs, 3I(trt/ Ann, widow of Ezra

C. Whiting, Died Dec. 16, 1866, JE.

67 yrs. II mos.

"I shall be satisfied when I awake with thy
likeness."

In Memory of

Ezra C. Whiting, who died April
10, 1824, in his 32 year ; And of 2 in-
fant Children by his wife Mary Ann :

Elbert, died Sept. 7, 1819, aged i year
& 17 days.

Elbert, 2d, died Aug. 27, 1S21, aged
I year & 10 days.

In Memory of

Col. Samuel Whiting, who died

Feb. 15, 1803, aged 82 yrs.

Also of

Elizabeth, his wife, who died Dec. 5,

1793. aged 70 yrs.

In memory of
Seymour Conway Whiting, who

departed this life July 26, 1841, aged
74 years.

Here lies Interred the Body of

Mr. Samuel Whitney, who De-
parted this life December }•' 6"^, 1753,
in }-« 66"^ Year of his Age.

Sacred to the memory of

Mrs. Abigail M. Woodbridge,
the amiable Consort of Samuel Wood-
bridge, Esqr., and eldest daughter of
Robert & Margaret Walker, who de-
parted this life, Aug. 15, A. D. 1814,
Aged 34 Years.

In memor}' of

Ruth Wooster, widow of the late
Col. Joseph Wooster, who died March
23"* iSoi,aged 86 years.

ERRATA.

Peter Pixley, son of Mr. David &
Mrs. Betsey Curtiss, died May 10,
1817, aged 3 months.*

* This inscription should have been
in the Curtiss families, but was entered
in the wrong place.

The date of death of John Hurd on
page 221 was 1681, but it is not legible
on the grave-stone.

Note. — The author has had the privilege, after copying the above list from the
stones, of comparing it with the manuscript copy of these names and dates, made
with great care and labor by Mr. Abraham W. Morehouse, of Bridgeport, at the
request of the Fairfield County Historical Society, which has contributed much to
the present state of perfectness of the list.

CHAPTER X.

NEW SETTLERS AND ENTERPRISES.

XCELLENCE of character is one of the
^ most valuable qualities in the establishment
of a new plantation in the wilderness. In
the settlement of Stratford the planters pos-
sessed, not only this quality in a marked
degree, but there was almost a complete
absence of those of an opposite kind during
the first fifty years, and largely so the next
fifty.

The early settlers in all New England
were a select class, from the best stock of
England, France and Scotland, in the sense
of a well-informed, thinking, energetic peo-
ple. Many of them were of the homes of the
commoners of England, sometimes termed
Landed Gentry, and most of them were ac-
customed to honorable daily employment,
although some of them could trace their
ancestry back to royal blood. This pride in
ancestry, although often the topic of ridicule, is nevertheless
of much value and satisfaction, for, while royal blood — or any
blood — may not always exhibit itself in the most perfect man-
ner, nor prove itself worthy of the highest honor, yet it has
represented the very best qualities of which the old nations
can boast; and every child in America that can trace its line
of inheritance back to such an origin, may well claim it as a
high honor.

It has been a practice to laugh at those who, not
being third-rate mechanics when they came to this coun-
try, pretended to be descended from royalty ; but only

240 History of Stratford.

novices would indulge in such sourness of mind, for it is be-
yond controversy that quite a number of the planters were
not far enough removed from royalty and wealth to have had
need of mechanical trades, and therefore had not such
knowledge.

A large proportion of the settlers at Stratford were by
occupation farmers, called planters here because they were
of a company which established a plantation. A few had
other trades, as ship builders, tailors, stone masons, and mer-
chants, or traders. Several had estates which they left in
England, but which they retained in their right and posses-
sion many years after leaving them.

The prominent object in these planters in coming here
was that they might enjoy church privileges in accord with
the teachings of the Bible, as they understood them, and this
they proposed to enjoy under the English Constitution.
They evidently had no thought of independency from that
constitution, and for one hundred years did not dream of
such a thing.

This company of seventeen, after becoming located, imme-
diately invited others to join them upon certain liberal, but
substantial terms, and at the year 1650 about thirty-five had
accepted those terms.

The township, being twelve miles long and ten miles
wide, contained 120 square miles, or 76,000 acres of land;
giving to each of the 17 families over four thousand acres.
The company disposed of their lands in various ways. A
few acres were sequestered for public use; some for individ-
ual use and ownership. To new settlers they gave a home
lot, a piece for meadow and another piece of upland for culti-
vation, upon condition that the party should build a house
and improve the few acres thus donated during four years,
at the end of which the land became their own and was so
recorded. Individual proprietors sold fractional parts of
their Rights, so that at the end of about fifty years the pro-
prietors numbered one hundred instead of seventeen, and in
1699 the number was 143.

The proprietors, for themselves, voted at first, to divide
to each Right a certain number of acres, and the owner

Biographical Sketches. 241

selected the land, or located it, wherever he pleased, subject
to the sanction of the division committee, only that he could
take up but a few acres in one place, about 18 or 20 at most.

After some years certain tracts of land were laid into plots
one for each proprietor, and then they drew lots for them as
the most impartial way of locating each man's land.

Having heretofore given some personal account or bio-
graphical sketches of nearly seventy persons, some further
items in the same direction will illustrate the work of the
settlement of the town.

Edward Katchani died in Stratford, and his will was
proved June 17, 1655. The inventory of his estate amounted
toi^90-ii-6. In his will, dated June 1655, he names three
daughters, Mary, Hannah and Hester.

Michard Mills, to all appearance, was one of the first
company at Stratford. He married the daughter of Francis
Nichols, and probably came with the Nichols family to Strat-
ford in 1639. He sold much, perhaps all of his estate to
Joseph Hawley in 1650, and removed, it is said, to Westches-
ter, N. Y.

It is in connection with his name that the term " Lordship "
is first found, as applied to a meadow, on what is still known
as the Lordship farm. It is said in the deeds of land — 1650
to 1660 — several times, " Mill's Lordship " and the " Lord-
ship meadow."

No explanation of the term is found or known, but was
doubtless wholly connected with Mr. Mills or his family ;
and hence the name did not originate with the NicoU family
who owned the Lordship farm many years. The term was at
first applied to the salt meadow at that place.

Scmiuel Mills, believed to be the son of Richard, came
to Stratford, and on Dec. 24, 1666, purchased land of Hope
Washburn, and was one of the earliest settlers at Oronoke,
soon after this purchase, where he resided nearly twenty
years, being quite active as a citizen of the town. One
record says, " Samuel Mills purchased from his uncle Caleb
Nichols, six acres of land, 29th loth month, 1668."

He sold his estate here in 1670, to " Hugh Makie," but

242 History of Stratford.

the next year he took it back and Mr. Makie removed from
the town.

Samuel Mills died at Southampton, L. I., in 1685, leaving
a widow and an only heir Richard Mills, who disposed of the
Stratford property soon after.

David 3Iitchellf son of Matthew, and brother of the
wife of Mr. Samuel Sherman, sen., came to Stratford and pur-
chased the "accommodations" of John Reader, Feb. 26,
1659, consisting of a house lot and several pieces of land.

David Mitchell became quite prominent in the town as a
land owner and farmer.

John Washhurn was at Stratford and married Mary,
daughter of Richard Butler, June 7, 1655, and probably re-
moved to Hempstead, L. I., with his father, William Wash-
burn.

Sope WasJihiimf son of William of Mass., and per-
haps of Stratford a short time, was made a freeman here at
or before 1669. He purchased land at Oronoke in 1666, and
was one of the three earliest settlers at that place, probably
the next year. He purchased several pieces of land at that
place, but soon removed to Derby, where his descendants
continued many years.

On the Stratford records is an agreement of the widow
Mary and children, William, Samuel, Sarah and Jane, to di-
vide the estate of Hope Washburn, dated Nov. 16, 1696.

James ClavTx^ Jr., son of James of New Haven, came
to Stratford and married Deborah, daughter of John Peacock,
about 1662. He was a farmer and received considerable land
bv his wife ; had a family of five sons and three daughters,
and the descendants were quite numerous and active citizens
for many years. He purchased land of Joseph Judson " near
unto Nesumpaws creek," Nov. 25, 1667, and several other
pieces soon after.

Jahez Hai'ffeVf said to have been a Huguenot, from
Westchester, N. V., came to Stratford and married Margaret
the daughter of Henry Tomlinson in 1662, and settled in
Derby about 1670. He had a house lot recorded to him in

Biographical Sketches. 243

1669 in Stratford, and the same year seems to have had land
recorded to him in Derb3% where he lived, and died in 1678.
He had a family of three sons and six daughters. He resided
in Stratford several years and bought land of the Indians at
Oronoke, on which one of his sons settled many 3'ears after-
wards.

John Mull, son of Richard of Dorchester, Mass., and
New Haven, came to Stratford, and received in 1662, the
grant of a " home lot on the north side of Jabez Harger, pro-
vided he build on it and improve it three years." This was
only a home lot without other land. He was accepted as an
inhabitant at Derby in 1668, but seems to have resided at
Stratford until 1675. He was successful at Derby in accumu-
lating property, but removed to Wallingford in 1687, where
he is called Doctor, — received a mile square of land from the
town, and where he died Dec. 6, 171 1, leaving a numerous
family. Three of his sons remained in Derby and their de-
scendants became greatly celebrated.

John Pickett was of Salem, Mass., in 1648, and came
to Stratford in 1660, with a family of four sons and two
daughters. He had a home lot granted him b}' the town,
Apr. I, 1665, and was a permanent citizen. His wife died
Oct. 6, 1683, and he died Apr. 11, 1684. His son Daniel set-
tled at Danbury about the year 1700, and Daniel, junior, was
one of the early settlers in New Milford. John, sen., was
constable at Stratford in 1667, townsman in 1669. and repre-
sentative in 1673.

JRobevt LanCf from Derbyshire, England, first located
at Killingworth, Conn., came to Stratford and was granted a
home lot, two acres, April i, 1665, " on the same terms as
John Hull and Jabez Harger," On the 19th of December he
married Sarah, the daughter of John Pickett, and became a
successful farmer in the township. On February 21, 1676, he
was chosen " burier," or sexton for the graveyard.

Hohert Clarkf from New Haven, married Sarah, the
widow of Francis Stiles of Windsor some years before 1665,
and probably after he came to Stratford.

244 History of Stratford,

He became an influential citizen ; was successful as a far-
mer, and gave considerable land to each of the sons of his
wife, Ephraim, Samuel and Thomas Stiles.

Nicholas Gray came from Flushing, L. 1., and pur-
chased land in Stratford in 1661 ; remained here 12 or 14
years and returned to Flushing. In 1676, he was in Flush-
ing, and in 1678 he rented " his dwelling house, land and
orchard in Stratford to Joseph Blakeman, but in 1680, his
taxes remaining unpaid for several years the constable took
possession of his estate, which matter he seems to have set-
tled by the sale of the land.

John Cook seems to have come to Stratford as servant
to Richard Butler, perhaps when quite young. His first land
is thus : "John Cook by gift from his Master Richard Butler,
two acres of upland in the Neck," and " by gift from the
town two acres, Feb. i, 1667."

JSenry Summers came to Stratford, apparently in
company with Samuel Gregory, who was his brother-in-law,^
before 1668. Whether they were just come from England or
not has not been ascertained. The town records say that
Samuel Summers purchased of his uncle Samuel Gregory,
four acres of land, in 1696, near Golden Hill.

Henry Summers purchased his first land in Stratford,
" 27th of ist month, 1668 ; land lying at Pequonnock, bounded
east with the great river called Pequonnock river, and south
with the Indians' land, north on common." This he sold the
same day to Samuel Gregory.

In 1686, he was living at Pequonnock, his dwelling being
located, as near as can be ascertained, a little way south of
what is now the junction of Park and Washington avenues.
Here he was residing, apparently, in 1707, but in 1710 he was
residing in Milford, for at that time, he deeded, as he says:
"to my son John Summers, one-half of my house lot in Strat-
field, a dwelling house, barn and orchard," it being eleven
acres, " the half of the home lot on which the building
stands." He owned several pieces of land in the vicinity —
one of 16 acres, purchased in 1686, " lying on a hill west of
Ireland's brook between the wolf-pits."

BiograpJiical Sketches, 245

Henry Gregory was in Stratford as early as 1647, as
recorded in tiie New Haven records, where he is represented
as having sons Judah and John and a daughter, the wife of
William Crooker. Henry Gregory died before 1655.

Samuel Gregory , probably the son of the above Henry,
was one of the first settlers at Pequonnock, now Bridgeport,
where he was residing in 1686, at what is now the junction of
Park and Washington avenues, for the highway now Wash-
ington avenue was laid out through the Indians' land, begin-
ning at Samuel's Gregory's house. He settled at Pequon-
nock about 1665.

Micliard Seach was of New Haven in 1639, ^nd one of
the original signers of the compact. He married there about
1640, and came to Stratford with a family of four children,
where he purchased his first land February 6, 1660, of Thomas
Wheeler ; " one house lot with all the buildings upon it." In
1662, he purchased other pieces of land — one of five acres
" on west point of the Neck, butted south upon the meadow
called Mills' Lordship."

He and his descendants became substantial and influen-
tial inhabitants of the town.

Rev. Israel Chaunceyf youngest son of the Rev. Charles
Chauncey, president of Harvard College, was born in 1644,
at Scituate, Massachusetts, where his father was then preach-
ing. He was graduated at Harvard in 1661, in the class with
his older brothers Nathaniel and Elnathan.

In 1663, he compiled and edited the New England Alma-
nac, on the title page of which is, Israel Chauncey. On the
last two pages he states " The Theory of Planetary Orbs
and the natural portents of eclipses."

He preached in Stratford from April, 1665, to June, 1666,
as assistant to the Rev. Adam Blakeman, when he received a
call to settle as pastor over this church and society, and was
soon after ordained as such, he being then but 22 years of
age. He was made freeman in the town in 1667, and married
Mary, the daughter of Isaac Nichols, senior, one of his most
prominent parishioners. His first wife died and he married
2d Sarah Hodson of New Haven in 1684.

246 History of Stratford.

In 1666, upon his settlement as pastor, his salary was fixed
at ;^6o per annum, and one-fourth of the sequestered minis-
tr}' land was given him for his use, and a house soon after
built on the home lot for him to reside in and improve as his
own property, but in case of death or removal these were to
revert to the town. In 1677, however, the house and land
was fully deeded to him, as was a like estate to the Rev.
Zechariah Walker, pastor of the Woodbury Church.

Mr. Israel Chauncey studied medicine and was a practic-
ing physician of eminence as well as a divine, and hence he
was an important personage in the Council of War, in the
Narragansett Indian troubles.

On the 9th of March, 1675-6, the authority at Hartford
make this record : " The Council also ordered the Secretary
to write to Mr. Israel Chauncey to hasten up to Hartford to
attend the Council's orders, with an order to impress men,
horses, and accommodations for his coming up.'"

Two days later a further record was made.

"March 11, 1675-6. The Council appointed Mr. Chaun-
cey to be one of the Council of the army in room of Mr.
Hooker, and also that he should now go forth with the army
as their chirurgion," [surgeon].

Upon the breaking out of the King Philip or Narragan-
sett War, in July, 1675, a " Council " of War was appointed by
the General Court, consisting of the Governor, Lieut. Gov-
ernor, Assistants and a few others named, and Mr. Israel
Chauncey being appointed a member of that body shows the
estimation in which he was held, but this act brought the
calamity to the heart of Stratford by taking their minister from
them a number of months, in the midst of the most distress-
ing anxieties, for the war created great fear and excitement.
The destination of the army under Major Robert Treat,
when Mr. Chauncey was ordered to go with them as their
Surgeon, was Norwich, and if he went, he soon returned, for
the burning of Simsbury, Connecticut, the following Sunday,
caused the Council to recall Major Treat and a part of his
forces and send them north, to protect the settlements in that
direction.

^ Conn. Col. Rec, ii. 415.

TJie Rev. Israel CJiauncey. 247

On the 27th of the same month, Mr. Chauncey being at
Hartford as a member of the Council, having received intel-
ligence "of the death of his child and the dangerous sickness
of his wife, was permitted to return home ; but before leav-
ing he addressed a letter to the Council which shows a little
further his influence and public relations to the Common-
wealth.

His brother, the Rev. Nathaniel Chauncey, was the pastor
at Windsor, and had been with the army as chaplain, ap-
parently, on its first expedition to Norwich, in this war.

His brother Bulkly, whom he mentions in his letter, was
the Rev. Gershom Bulkley, pastor at VVethersfield, and had
married Sarah, the eldest sister of Mr. Chauncey, and the
occasion for his having an "easy horse" was from the fact
that he had accompanied Major Treat's forces northward
two weeks previous, and was wounded by a shot from the
enemy, in a sudden assault made upon the English b}' a small
party of Indians.

Mr. Chauncey was successful in his pastorate at Stratford,
beginning in the Spring of 1665 and ending at his decease,
March 14, 1702-3, a term of thirty-seven years. He con-
ducted his church through the troublous time which re-
sulted in the organization of a second church and its removal
to Woodbury, with dignity of character in apparently a large
Christian spirit, securing to himself great respect and honor
during his subsequent life.

^ Mr. Chauncey's letter.

" Much honoured : I am truly sorry that I am necessitated to trouble you. I
have lately received a letter from some friends, who doe acquaint me with the
afflicted state of my family ; my wife being very lately delivered, the child dead,
and my wife in danger of death, by reason of weakness prevailing upon her. I
doe therefore humbly entreat your Worships to grant me a release to visit my
afflicted family, and dear wife, if living. E.\cuse my boldness and troublesome-
ness, and consider my condition. I hope my brother Bulkly, provided he have an
able and easy horse, will attend the army, upon their present motion ; only, if it
be expected, he doth desire care may be taken for an easy horse, and that it may
be sent him this night. I have not further to adde but my hearty prayers for the
presence of the great and wonderful Counsellor with you, in your solemne consul-
tations, and 10 subscribe myselfe Your Worships reall servant,

Stratford, Mar. 27th, '76. Is: Chauncey.

(Conn. Col. Rec, ii. 424).

248 History of Stratford.

Notwithstanding the calamity of King Philip's War, two
years later they commenced the building of a new meeting-
house and completed it in 1680.

After the death of his brother, the Rev. Nathaniel Chaun-
cey of Windsor and Hatfield, Mr. Chauncey took, in 1686, the
son Nathaniel, of that brother, to bring up until of age, for the
use of the Rev. Nathaniel's library during that time. This
library was valued in the inventory of the estate at ;^85, and
comprised, probabl}'-, says Prof. Fowler, a large part of Pres.
Charles Chauncey's library.

Mr. Israel Chauncey was one of the founders of Yale
College, and probably presided over the first meeting of its
projectors, his name being first on the list of their names ;
and on November 11, 1701, he was chosen Rector, or Presi-
dent of the Institution, but declined the labor and honor,
probably because of a sense of failing health, as he lived but
about a year and a half after.

Dr. Charles Chauncey, a nephew, of Boston, said of him :
" He spent his days among that people [Stratford] in great
reputation as a physician as well as a divine.''

Mrs. Sarah (Chauncey) Whittelsey, who lived in his fam-
ily when a young woman, said, " he was one of the most
hospitable, benevolent old gentlemen she ever knew."

Nathaniel Chauncey, nephew of the Rev. Israel Chaun-
cey, was settled in Durham. He began preaching there in
1706, but was not ordained before 171 1. In 1708, he was
called with but one dissenting vote to become pastor of the
Stratford Church. Five candidates had been previously tried
without success. He declined and Mr. Cutler was secured.

Robert McJEiv en came from Dundee, Scotland. He
early in life attached himself to the sect called from their
leader, Cameronians, and at the age of eighteen, in 1679, '^^^^
engaged in a battle against the King. In 1685 many of the
persecuted Christians being in bonds and imprisonment, were
sent by the government of Scotland on board of a ship of
War of fifty guns, to colonize the isthmus of Darien. The
commander of the ship dying a few days after they were at
sea the passengers brought the ship toward New York and
ran her ashore at Amboy, N. J.

Biographical Sketches. 249

Robert McEwen wrote in his account book the fol-
lowing: "In June 18, 1679, I was in one engagement in
Scotland at Bothwell's Bridge, 1 then being the age of 18
years. The 5th of September, 1685, we set sail from Scot-
land to come to America, and we landed at Amboy the i8th
of December. The i8th of February I came to Stratford in
New England, 1686."

"June 30, 1695, I was married to Sarah VVillcoxson in
Stratford."

Robert McEwen died in 1740 aged 78 years. Tradition in
the family says that after being landed at Amboy, eleven of
the passengers having heard of the freedom of the people in
Connecticut, came on foot to vStratford.

James JSlaheman^ son of the Rev. Adam Blakeman,
married Mirriam, daughter of Moses Wheeler in 1657, and
died in 1689. He and his brother Samuel married cousins.
He was a farmer and miller, purchasing first the tide mill at
the Eagle's Nest, next the one at Old Mill green, which he
sold and went to the Near-Mill river and built the first mill
there, receiving considerable land from the town to aid, or
remunerate him in part for the expense of building the mill,
at the place now called Peck's Mill. He was one of the most
active business men in the town, in his day.

Mev. Henjamin Blakeman^ son of the Rev. Adam
Blakeman, after his father's decease chose to seek an education
in accordance with his father's previous wishes, and was grad-
uated at Harvard College in 1663. He resided at Stratford a
few years as a teacher, then entered the ministry. In 1674, he
removed to Maiden, Massachusetts, and in 1675 married Re-
becca, daughter of Joshua Scottow, merchant of Boston, He
preached at Maiden until 1678, and afterward he preached at
Scarborough. He represented Saco in the General Court of
Massachusetts, and was a large land holder in that town. He
died before 1698.

Thomas J£imherly was received in Stratford as an out-
liver in 1667. He was probably Thomas of New Haven in
1643, and purchased land of Joseph Hawley on " i8th, loth,
1668," and in 1670-71 he bought a part of a house lot of James

250 History of Stratford.

Blakeman, and died about one year afterward. Some of his
sons were quite influential, successful men in after years.

Jeremiah Judson^ son of William ist, born in England,
came with his father to Stratford in 1639, when eighteen years
of age, and soon became a land owner and prominent citizen.
He married, ist, in 1652, Sarah, daughter of Nathaniel Foot
then of Stratford, who died about 1672, and he married Cath-
arine, the widow of Thomas Fairchild, senior.

He mas made a freeman in May, 1658, was a Sergeant in
the Militia; a justice of the peace, a large land owner and
farmer, and died May 15, 1700, in his 79th year. He made
one mistake in business transaction, as indicated and explained
in the following record :

"General Court, May, 1669. This Court remitts Jeremy
Judson the remaynder of the fine that is unpayd, which fine
was imposed upon him by the County Court, March last, at
Fayrefield, for selling Cider to the Indians."

His son, Jeremiah, when sixteen years of age, with Wil-
liam Hunnywell, had a little court business, which indicates
that they were like some other young men since that day.

" These lads, with two others, were prosecuted at the
Fairfield county court, August, 1685, for 'stealing water mil-
ions, the last Thursday in the night about the going down of
the mone,' from Benjamin Lewis's yard. They confessed
having taken two melons, — for which they were fined eleven
shillings, cost and damage; and for 'night walking' were
fined in addition, ten shillings each, or in default of payment,
to sit in the stocks. They petitioned for a remission of the
latter penalty, which was granted."'

Lieut, Joseph Judson, son of William ist, born in
England in 1619, came with his father and two brothers to
America, at the age of 1 5 years, in 1634. The family remained
at Roxbury, Massachusetts, four years, came to Hartford or
Wethersfield in 1638, and, with Mr. Blakeman's company, to
Stratford in the spring of 1639.'

Joseph Judson was made a freeman in May, 1658, when

' Col. Rec, iii. 197.

•* See inscription on his tombstone, p.

Biographical Sketches. 251

39 years of age, and was elected a representative the next
October.

He was made a Lieutenant of the Train Band of Strat-
ford in June, 1672, and was engaged in the Narragansett War
in 1676.

In his time he was one of the most active, and well-known
business men in the county, but was not the highest military
officer, as stated on page no.

In May, 1673, a petition was presented by Stratford
townsmen to the General Court, to confirm the bounds of
their plantation, and " for adjudication of the claim of Lieut.
Joseph Judson to a large tract of land alleged to be within
Stratford bounds.'"

This was a tract of land purchased by Joseph Judson of
the Indians in 1661, twelve years before the petition, called
Mohegan Hills, and contained over 5,000 acres of land, lying
between the two branches of the Farmill river, including the
present Walnut Tree Hill School district of Huntington, a
part of two other districts and extending into Monroe, nearly
to the place called East Village;' it being a territory averag-
ing about two miles wide and five in length. This land was
wholly within the township of Stratford, and they could claim
it under their grant, but Joseph Judson had paid the Indians
for it and hence he had a good claim. No record has been
seen as to how the matter was settled, but it was doubtless
done, as in several other cases in which the individual parties
retained land sufficient to remunerate them fully, and the
town took the remainder.

Joseph Judson removed with the Woodbury company to
that town, where he was a leader among the people, a deputy
to the General Assembly a number of years, and also a com-
missioner of the town, but he was buried in Stratford.

Francis Hall was of New Haven in 1639. He pur-
chased land in Fairfield in 1654, where he seems to have re-
sided a number of years. He bought of James Rogers of New
London, as the agreement says: " All my debts that appear

* Col. Rec, ii. 195.

^ See Indian deed on page 22 of this book.

252 History of Stratford.

hy account, or otherwise due to me, that is to say at Nor-
wolke, Fayrfeyld, Stratford, Milford and New Haven, with
m}' lands at Stratford, houses, commons belonging to those
lands, with a little house by the water's side at Milford, Aug-
ust I, 1659." Not long after this he settled in Stratford,
where he died ; his will being proved March 14, 1689-90. He
was a practicing lawyer while in Stratford ; was employed
quite a number of times by the town, and by the proprietors
of the common lands. He was influential in ecclesiastical
affairs, and appears to have been a useful, good, and honored
citizen.

Mphvai^n Stiles, whose mother married Robert Clarke,
came to Stratford about 1660, received land from his step-
father in 1667, at Oronoke, where he settled and became a
thriving, valuable citizen. He was considerably active in
town matters, had a gristmill at Farmill river, "a little below
Black Brook, near the place called the Plum trees," and in
character and standing appears to have been among the first
of the town. His children being three, and all daughters, his
family name ceased with himself when he departed this life.

Sa^miel StileSf brother of Ephraim, was equally fortu-
nate in receiving land by gift from his step-father Robert
Clark, and thus had a more advantageous start in the world
than many others. All persons of this name have disap-
peared from the old town of Stratford some years ago, but
there are a few in Bridgeport.

"June II, 1667, Samuel Stiles, by way of gift from his
father Robert Clarke, hath a dwelling house and the home
lot thereto adjoining, lying at Woronoke, bounded east with
the great river, south with the land of John Wheeler, north
with the Farmill river, and west with a creek."

He and his brother Ephraim received twenty acres to be
divided between them, from Mr. Clark.

Thomas Stiles, brother of Ephraim and Samuel, re-
ceived land from his step-father Robert Clark, " fifteen acres
in the woods by the river called Stratford river on the south
side of Joseph brook."

Considerable search has been made by different parties

Biographical Sketches. 253

to ascertain if Francis Stiles, the father of the above three
sons, came to Stratford with his family before his decease,
without success, but the following record seems to give some
light on the question, and is the only item of the kind that
has been seen.

" Caleb Nichols purchased of Mr. Stilles one house lot,
one acre and a quarter, bounded with Mr. Fayrechild on the
south, Isaac Nichols on the west, my own lot, that was
Francis Nichols' on the north, and the street on the east."
No date is given to this purchase, but it being in the hand-
writing of the town clerk, Joseph Hawley, it must have been
made before 1666, and was probably made about 1660. Mr.
Stiles' purchase of it was not recorded, as far as can be ascer-
tained. The record of this sale was made in 1664.

Besides this, the fact that Robert Clark gave to the
three sons of his wife, formerly widow of Francis Stiles, about
fifty acres of land, when he had several children of his own,
indicates that he received this land from his wife, and deeded
it to its rightful owners, her three sons. By these items it
seems quite evident that Francis Stiles resided here several
years, was the owner of considerable land and a homestead.
Also no record is found showing that Robert Clark pur-
chased the land he gave to his step-sons.

Captain John Minor was a valuable inhabitant of
Stratford nearly twenty years. He was a native of New
London or that vicinity ; was educated at Hartford at the
expense of the Colony for an interpreter to the Indians, and
came to Stratford in 1659, or before. He was town clerk ten
or twelve years from 1666 until his final removal to Wood-
bury in 1677. He was in demand as interpreter very fre-
quently during most of his life. After settlement in Wood-
bury he was appointed captain of the train band, served many
years as representative and departed this life with many hon-
ors, September 17, 1719, aged 85 years.

Samuel Galpin-, from New Haven, came to Stratford
about 1675, bought land here September 6, 1681, which was
laid out in the Newpasture in 1682, and he may have made
his home at Old Mill green. He married Esther, the daugh-

254 History of Stratford.

ter of John Thompson, in i^^^-j, and died before 1701, leav-
ing several children, two sons, whose descendants soon dis-
appeared from the town.

John JPryoVf became a land owner and inhabitant in
Stratford in 1686, but soon removed.

Michai'd Hounesfall became a proprietor and inhabit-
ant in 1687, but remained but a short time.

Jacob Walker, son of Robert of Boston and brother of
the Rev, Zcchariah, came to Stratford about 1667, and mar-
ried Elizabeth, widow of Samuel Blakeman, December 6,
1670. He is said to have been a weaver by trade, and his
wife had considerable property left her by her husband at
Old Mill Green. They prospered, accumulated property and
became prominent citizens, but his descendants of his name
soon became extinct in Stratford. His daughter Mary mar-
ried Abraham Wooster and was the mother of General David
Wooster, of imperishable fame.

Joseph Walker, son of Robert of Boston, and brother,
also, of the Rev. Zechariah and Jacob, came to Stratford
about 1667. He married Abigail, daughter of the Rev. Peter
Prudden of Milford in 1667. His life work in Stratford was
soon finished, for he died in 1687, leaving one son and four
daughters. His son Robert was deacon of the church eleven
years, and died, aged 75 years. The grand-son, Robert, be-
came Judge of the Superior Court of Connecticut, and is re-
ported as one of the most capable men, of irreproachable
character, that Connecticut had produced to that day. He is
said to have been the equal of Hon. William Samuel John-
son, in many respects. The name of Walker has been cele-
brated above most names in Fairfield County.

John Brooks, a young man from New Haven, bought
his first land in Stratford March 18, 1679-80. He married
here and had one son. His wife, who was widow of John
Peat, died in 1694, and he in 1695.

This Brooks family became quite numerous in the west
em part of the town, in Stratfield Society.

Biographical Sketches. 255

William Hoberts became a land owner and inhabitant
of this town in 1668. His family, consisting of one daughter
and two sons, seems to have left the town about the year 1700.

3enjamin Leivis was first in New Haven, from which
place he removed to Wallingford and thence to Stratford,
where he purchased his first land March i, 1679, a house and
lot bounded west with the Congregational burying place, and
east on Main street. This has been a numerous, successful
and influential family — several descendants still residing in
the town.

Rev, Zechariah Walker*, son of Robert of Boston, was
preaching at Jamaica, L. I., from 1663 to 1668. He was or-
dained pastor over the second church in Stratford May 5,
1670; w^ent with the company to Woodbury, whither he re-
moved his family in 1678. He, after a laborious and suc-
cessful pastorate at that place, died January 20, 1699-1700.

The coming of this man to Stratford was of great honor,
for although he soon removed to Woodbury, yet, through his
being here for a time, probably, his brothers became inhabit-
ants here and their descendants, some of them, were among
the most noted persons in the State.

Hobert JSassett, son of John the first, was in New Haven
with his fathar in 1643. He was a shoemaker, and served the
plantation as drummer a number of years. He removed to,
and was an inhabitant at Stamford, in March, 1653.

While in Stamford Robert Bassett had a difficulty with
the civil authority, which made a great commotion, with con-
siderable remarks against himself.

The difficulty arose out of the proposition to go to war
against the Dutch, in 1653 ; and in this matter Roger Ludlow
and several others were involved. What were the facts?

In the spring of 1653, while the Commissioners of the
United Colonies were in session at Boston, they decided that
500 soldiers should be raised for an expedition against the
Dutch at New Amsterdam, and proportioned the soldiers to
be drafted, to the Colonies as follows: Massachusetts, 333;
Plymouth, 60; Connecticut, 65 ; New Haven, 42.'

' Conn. Col. Rec, i. 241.

256 History of Stratford.

Upon the receipt of this action, Connecticut proportioned
her number among her plantations: " Windsor, 12; Pequett,
5; Mattabezek, i; Norwalk, i; Hartford, 15; Wethersfield,
8 ; Farmington, 3 ; Seabrook 5 ; Fairfield, 8 ; Stratford, 6."
The order of the General Court, May 21, 1653, was, that these
soldiers should "be forthwith impressed, to be at a day's
warning, or call, as also that suitable provisions and amuni-
tion shall be forthwith prepared."

The colony of New Haven took favorable action in re-
gard to the war and sent commissioners special to urge upon
Massachusetts the necessity of united and energetic action ;
the 42 soldiers were proportioned, and in June of that year
Stamford, then under the jurisdiction ot New Haven, reported
her soldiers raised and under pay, and that they were put to
the service of watching for the protection of the town until
ordered forward.

Immediatel}' after the act of the Commissioners inaugu-
ratingthe war, Massachusetts as a colony declined to be gov-
erned by that act, pretending that the Commissioners had not
power to such an extent.

Roger Ludlow was one of the Commissioners when the
expedition was decided upon, and the trouble which arose
out of this proposed expedition, in addition to some other
matters, is said to have led him to leave the country in dis-
gust; and it is not much wonder; for, after the soldiers had
been in arms drilling and wasting their time some months at
a heavy cost to the plantations along the Sound, and the
Dutch, meanwhile making their trespasses at Greenwich and
threatening Stamford and Norwalk, the expedition was de-
layed by Connecticut and New Haven until late in the
autumn of that vear, in cons^equence of the inaction of Massa-
chusetts. Then it was that Stamford men, with other planta-
tions, proposed to go against the Dutch, without Massachu-
setts.

It was at this point that Robert Bassett was brought be-
fore the agents sent to Stamford from New Haven to settle
these difficulties, charged as the leader of the disturbances.

The particular items in this matter are revealed in the
record of the New Haven Court, November 22, 1653 :

Coj/iiHotions in Stamford, 257

" The Governor acquainted the court with a letter he
had received which had been sent to Robert Bassett without
date or name subscribed, which is to stir up to stand for the
State of England, as they pretend, and to stand for their lib-
erties, that they may all have their votes and shake off the
yoke of government they have been under in this jurisdiction ;
also with a letter from the town of Stamford, making com-
plaints of their rates and other grievances as they pretend;
also another writing from Stamford, stirring up to raise volun-
teers to go against the Dutch, and that themselves will send
forth ten men well furnished for the war; also a letter from
Mr. Ludlow, informing of a meeting they have had at Fairfield,
at which they have concluded to go against the Dutch, and
have chosen him for their chief, and he hath accepted it; all
which writings were read to the Court, after which the Court
considered whether they were called at this time to send forth
men against the Dutch, and after much debate and consultation
had with most of the elders in the jurisdiction, the issue was,
which the Court by vote declared, that considering the haz-
ards and danger attending such a design, especially now, it
being so near winter, and the want of suitable vessels and the
like, they see not themselves called to vote for a present war,
but to suspend a full issue till Connecticut jurisdiction be
acquainted with it and give notice what they will do; but if
they agree to carry it on now, then this Court agrees to join
with them and to meet again to consider and order, as the
case may require."*

It may be seen that all the above items enumerated were
in harmony with the laws and usage of the times and the pro-
ceedings of the General Courts except the opposition of
Stamford men to the law of New Haven Colony that none
should vote but members of the church; and this they — the
Stamford men — claim.ed a violation of the English Constitu-
tion.

These plantations, west of Milford, had raised the num-
ber of soldiers proportioned to them, and kept them in read-
iness at a day's call, nothing more, except they now proposed
to raise and equip more than the number called for. The

8 New Haven Col. Rec, ii. 47-4S.

258 History of Stratford.

nomination or choice of Mr. Ludlow at Fairfield was in har-
mony with both, the Connecticut and New Haven Courts.
Twenty years later the General Court refused twice to con-
firm John Beardsley of Stratford as lieutenant until every
voter of the town had had an opportunity to vote in his nom-
ination.

During this delay of the expedition, Stamford, having
promptly equiped its soldiers at considerable expense, seeing
that the whole expense was likely to fall on that town, if the
war did not go on, demanded that those expenses,' even some
damage to the meeting house (probably in consequence of the
soldiers having occupied it), should be borne by the Colon}'
of New Haven; "and that they might have twelve men sent
them at the jurisdiction charge to lie there all winter for their
defence." " Defence " against the Dutch, whose trespasses
and depredations had been going on all summer, and for
years ; and this request was according to the pledge of the
New Haven Colony, to protect the plantations under its jur-
isdiction.

Under these circumstances Mr. Goodyear and Mr. New-
man were sent by New Haven Court to quiet matters at
Stamford, but finding much more commotion than they ex-
pected, they called the whole town together; and at this
meeting Robert Bassett and John Chapman were the chief
speakers against the proceedings of the New Haven Court,
and in consequence of it Robert Bassett was summoned before
the New Haven Court to answer. On his way to Court he
said: " This is the thing that troubles me, that we have not
our vote in our jurisdiction [New Haven] as others have, and
instanced Connecticut jurisdiction."

Connecticut Colony never had any law excluding per-
sons from voting because they were not members of the
churches, but New Haven Colony always had.

Here, then, in Stamford, in the person of Robert Bassett,
was the second contest held in New England in favor q>{ civil
liberty against cJutrch dictation and control ; the first having
taken place in Massachusetts with Roger Williams, who fled
to Rhode Island.

^ New Haven Col. Rec, i. 48.

Commotions in Stamford. 259

In this conflict Robert Bassett made one speech worthy
of the American Revolution which occurred one hundred
and twenty years later, and sounds very much like Patrick
Henry and other of his associates. In a town meeting in
Stamford March 7, 1653, after he had been once before the
Court at New Haven to answer in this matter, the record
says :'"

" Robert Bassett stood up and asked what the meetinp-
was for, Richard Law, the constable, answered there was a
general court to be at New Haven, and deputies were sent to
go thither ; Robert Bassett replied, they would obey no
authority but that which was from the State of England ; the
constable answered, this authority is the authority of Eno--
land ; that he denied and said, then let us have English laws,
for England does not prohibit us from our votes and liber-
ties, and here we are cut off from all appeals to England, and
we can have no justice here. Further, he said, thev were
made asses of, and their backs were almost broke, and it is
time for them to look to themselves and to throw their bur-
den off, for they shall be made very fools. And he spake
against the justice of the authority of this jurisdiction; a
reply being by some in defence thereof, he said, is that author-
ity just, that makes what laws they please, executes them as
they please, calls for rates when they please, and never so
much as give them a reason?" Francis Bell told him that
this should be declared at the Court; he answered, yes, it
was his mind it should be, and therefore saith he I will say it
again, is that authority just that makes what laws the}^ please,
executes them as' they please, calls for rates when they please
and never so much as give them a reason."

For these things Robert Bassett was imprisoned nearly
two months, then again brought before the Court, and under
the pressure of the courts, prisons and public sentiment
largely against him, he confessed, not only that he had done
these things, with one exception, but that he had done wrong
and the Court released him on bonds of " one hundred
pounds sterling."

Three other men as leaders in this contest for the right

'" New Haven Col. Rec, i. 59.

26o History of Stratford.

to vote, were arrested, tried, fined and placed under bonds of
fidelity to the New Haven Court.

Roger Zindloiv's part in this matter seems to have been
perfectly honorable and loyal so far as he acted in it ; and
this contrary to the generally received opinion of him. So
far as any and all records show, no soldiers were raised in
Fairfield but those ordered to be raised by Connecticut Gen-
eral Court. The vote to nominate him as their chief or cap-
tain, by the town, was in perfect keeping with the usage of
the Court ; and all of these things were done while the New
Haven Court itself was preparing for the war and urging
Massachusetts to fulfill her engagements in the same direc-
tion. That Ludlow, Fairfield and Stamford had no idea of
going to war without New Haven and Connecticut is evi-
denced by the fact that as soon as the report of the proposed
additional volunteers was offered, the New Haven Court at
once — November 22, 1653, — took counsel as to " whether they
were called at this time to send forth men against the Dutch,
[that is, without Massachusetts], and after much debate and
consultation had with most of the elders in the jurisdiction,"
the decision was against it, but even then they voted that if
Connecticut would go, New Haven would.

Immediately upon this decision Fairfield and Stamford
acquiesced, without a word of complaint, except as to paying
the bill of expenses caused by raising the soldiers and keep-
ing them all summer, as ordered by the Court ; and the ques-
tion as to the right of voting.

Such, in brief, were the doings in this matter, and such
the result.

The particular offence, as claimed by the New Haven
authorities, was, that the New Haven government being a
government of God, any person opposing it as a government,
sinned against God, his own soul, and the authority, a claim
as arbitrary and self-conceited as Arch Bishop Laud, of Eng-
land, ever proclaimed or acted upon.

The above items are taken from the New Haven records,
they being the only authority as to the trial of these persons.

Robert Bassett came to Stratford and purchased his first
land here November 10, 1681 ; and the next February he pur-

Biographical Sketches. 261

chased a home lot of John Wells, and the next year he built a
house on this lot, placing a stone over the mantel piece in the
cellar with the following letters and figures: " R. B. 1683."
These were cut in large size. When that house was torn
down by John McEwen and another built on the same site in
1723, or soon after, this stone was placed in the cellar wall,
where it may still be seen, the house having been owned and
occupied many years by the late Nathan B. McEwen.

Robert Bassett was a peaceable, acceptable inhabitant in
Stratford; was quite prosperous in worldly things, especially
in possessing lands.

It was his grand-son Samuel, son of Robert, Jr., who set-
tled in Derby in 1716 and became one of the most prominent
citizens of that town.

No near relation existed between this Robert Bassett
and the Goody Bassett executed at Stratford in 1651, for the
wills of both his father and mother, John and Mary Bassett,
were dated one and two years after the execution.

Arthur ^erry came to Stratford and married Anna,
only daughter of Joshua Judson, about 1675. He had a large
family, but most of his children removed early from the town.
It is possible that he traded somewhat as a merchant, for
there is a due bill recorded, signed by him in 1678, and se-
cured by sixteen acres of land, to Henry Powning of Boston,
which bill was to be paid in money or merchantable provis-
ion, at Boston. It is difficult to imagine the reason or cause
of such a debt, unless he was a trader in some way.

Satnuel\Blagge came from New York to Stratford with
a family about 1685, and continued here as a merchant ten or
twelve years. He had a number of children, several sons, but
the name disappears from the town after about fifty years.

Richard JSlacklach from Guilford, came to Stratford,
probably in the spring of 1686, and established himself
as a merchant, and thus continued about thirty years. He
was 'successful, and became very prominent as a business
man ; bought considerable land, leased the Stratford ferry
some years, interested himself in public matters ; was the first
one to build a box pew in the meeting house, which he did

262 History of Stratford.

about 1710, at his own expense, upon a vote of permission by
the town.

Upon his first coming here the town passed the follow-
ing: " May 6, 1686. It was voted and granted unto Mr.
Richard Blacklach and Mr. Daniel Shilton to build each of
them a warehouse and wharf in some convenient place where
it is judged most suitable by the selectmen of the town, pro-
vided the proprietors of Stratford forever have free wharfage."

Daniel Shelton having received permission in May,
1686, to build a ware house and wharf, as well as Richard
Blacklach, he went forward with much success as a merchant,
about twenty years, when he had not only married a fine 3^oung
lady, but changed his business to farming and bu3ang and
selling land. After some years he removed to Ripton, where
he died. A further account of him will be found in the his-
tory of the town of Huntington in this book.

Joseph CurtisSf son of the first John, was among the
most prominent citizens of Stratford for many years. He
was town clerk fifty successive years, and did the work in a
creditable manner, to himself and the town. He always
wrote the name Curtiss with two esses, and another name he
always wrote Blakeman and never Blackman.

Mr. Curtiss was elected an Assistant, an office now called
Senator, of the State, first in May, 1698, and elected after
that 22 successive years, making in all 23 years. He was
several years Judge of the County Court ; and was appointed
on several state committees of importance; one in 1710 with
Hon. Nathan Gold and Peter Burr with a committee of New
York State to locate the boundary line between these States,
as settled by the authorities in 1700.

He is reported to have secured the slip of paper and coat of
arms referred to in this book on page 125, which paper was an
exact copy of the church record at Roxbury, Massachusetts,
and he had the opportunity to know whether he belonged
to that family or not. He was cotemporary with his father,
John, thirty years, and with his uncle William fifty years, and
therefore he knew whether Thomas, Philip and Mary Curtiss
of Roxbury, Massachusetts, were his uncles and aunt, or not.

Biographical Sketches. 263

Further, it is possible that this slip of paper was not secure
until about 1760, thirty years after Joseph Curtiss died, but
there were living then from twenty to fifty persons in Strat-
ford, if not many more, who knew what William and John
Curtiss had told as to the family in Massachusetts.

The same is true in regard to several families of Stratford,
who made records one way and another about 1760, when a
number of persons obtained samples of the coat-of-arms be-
longing to their family in England.

Joseph Curtiss, in 1727 declined to serve longer as town
clerk and another was appointed, and soon after he departed
this life. For many years his descendants gloried in the
honorable title applied to him frequently while living — "the
Worshipful Joseph Curtiss."

Capt. William Curtis^ sketched somewhat on pages
125-6, was the most prominent military man in Stratford until
1700. Next to him were Capt. Stephen Burritt and Lieut.
Joseph Judson, but both of these were younger, not less noted.
He served the town in many offices, on many committees ;
and for eighteen years he was representative with only one
or two exceptions.

A List of the proprietors of all common or undivided
lands in the township was recorded in 1699, and is valuable
as showing who were proprietors and what their relative
proportioned interest was. The list does not show how
many acres each owned but simply his proportion ; that is, as
often as Jere Judson had 48 acres, Joseph Hawley had 14,
Jonathan Smith 15, and so to the end of the list." Also, it
does not show the relative wealth of the families named.

" "A record of each and every particular proprietor's Rights in future com-
monage in Stratford adjusted by the Committee Chosen and appointed for that
work and by them ordered to be Recorded lor the future benefit and peace of the
town, January 13, 1699, by which Rule all future Divisions are to be laid out.

Mr. Jere Judson, sen 48 acres.

Joseph Hawley 14 "

Jonathan Smith 15 "

Eben"" Booth iSj/^ "

John Booth i8>^

Ephraim Booth's heirs 14 "

Samuel Judson 24^^ acres.

Jacob Walker 12 "

Isaac Judson's heirs 12 "

Abraham Kimberly 6 "

Mr. Samuel Blagg 6 "

Joseph Blakeman 6 "

264

History of Stratford.

Various Items Worth Recording.

"At about the latter end of July, 167 1, there being four
Indians complained of for being drunk and disorderly, they
were brought before ye authority in ye Town and there fined
tenn shillings apiece.

Item. Ye charges in apprehending them and keeping
them in Custody till a hearing and ye tryall, five and twenty
shillings. This entered for memoranda. Jno. Minor, re-
corder. To Left[enant] 6^ To ye Constable 12^ To Inter-
preter 7^"

John Blakeman, deceased.. 20 :

Daniel Foot 6

Samuel Galpin, deceased--.i2

Samuel Mil M

Benj" Nicolls i9>^

Jonathan Nicolls 8>^

Josiah Nicolls, sen 17

John Hawley 21

Mr. Samuel Hawley 39

Ephraim Hawley 21

Eben' Hawley's heirs 5>^

Samuel Beacher 6

Benj" Lewis 24

John Wilcoxson 39^

Timothy Titharton i8>^

Joseph Booth 6

Daniel Curtiss 6

Daniel Titharton 14

Eben"" Blakeman 6

Samuel Titharton. I5>^

Jonathan Curtiss 14

Nicolas Huse 6

Jon. Bostick, deceased ig^^

Benj" Sherman 6

Joseph VVatkins — 10

James Phippeny 6

Mr. D. Mitchell, deceased -.47

Abraham Mitchell 6

Nathaniel Sherman 6

Samuel Beardslee, sen 14

John Hurd, senr's heirs 36

Henery Summers 14

Samuel Wells i6>^

and 8 acres 6 miles distant

John Peat 7

Jacob Weaklin 18

Edmon Sherman's heirs 12

John Hurd, junr 6

Capt. Jon. Beardslee 22

Zechariah Fairchild.. 20

Capt. James Judson -32j^

Mr. John Judson 343^

John Curtiss, sen . -.12^

Benj" Curtiss g^^

Lieut. Israel Curtiss 14

Richard Butler's heirs 22

Caleb Nicholls, deceased 24

Abraham Nicolls 6

Joseph Fairechild 4

Mist. Katharine Judson 18

Sergt. Samuel Fairechild 14

Edward Hinman 18

John Gilbert 6

Isaac Stiles 6

Arthur Perry 12^

Mr. Benj" Blakeman 14

Mrs. Jane Blakeman iS^

Isaac Bennit 6

Robert Rose 12

Francis Griffin. 7

Hugh Griffin 7

Thomas Griffin 6

James Blakeman iS

Capt. John Minor 14

John Wheeler 15

Joshua Curtiss 14

Samuel Gregory 14

Samuel Stiles 20

List of Proprietors.

265

Four pounds and a half, money, for Indians to pav, who
probably had not a penny in possession, was a costh- drunk,
but white people can throw such a spree all into the shade.

Selling their services for a passage to America.

" Be it known to all men by these presents that 1, Andrew
Alexander now of new east Jersey in America have bargained
and sold and do hereby sell and alienate unto Andrew Winton
of Fairfield in New England, his heirs and assigns, two servants
called Duncan Garnoch and Margaret his wife lately come
out of Scotland, which are indebted to me for indenture;

John Brooks - 6 acres.

Robert Lane .14

John Burroughs 6 "

John Porter 15 '

Isaac Knell 35^

John Johnson 6

Mr. Jonath. Pitman 20 "

Daniel VVeaklin lo]^

John Sherwood. 28 "'

Robert Basset .6 "

Deacon Wells 31 "

Samll Peat, sen' 14 "

Joseph Beardslee --19K "

Daniel Beardslee ..2)^%

Robert Walker 12

Sam" Peat, jun*^ C "

John Beach 12 "

and 8 acres within 5 miles

George Searles 6 "

Robert Clarke 28

Nathaniel Beach 6^ "

Serg' Eben"^ Curtiss t2>^

Zechariah Curtiss 15^ "

Benj" Beach 14 "

Sergt. Daniel Picket 12 "

John Picket's heirs 12 "

Nathaniel Porter 6 "

John Peacock's heirs 14 "

Jonas Tomlinson 14 "

M'^ Samuel Wheeler, deceased 271^ "

Moses Wheeler 3i>^

M'' Sam' Sherman, senr 17^ "

Matthew Sherman's heirs 12 "

Lieut. John Hubbel's heirs .18

Mr. Zecheriah Walker 30

Mr. Elizer Kimberly 12

Mr. Alex''"' Bryan 14

John Hurd Woodbcry 28

Mr. Samuel Preston 22

Ambrose Tompson and \

John Tompson )

Francis Hall, deceased 18

Mr. Daniel Shelton 28

Mr. Richard Blacklack 50^

Mr. Joseph Curtiss 34

Mr. Ephraim Stiles 30

Mr. Samuel Sherman, jun...20

Capt. Stephen Burritt 20

Mr. Israel Chance)- 32

Mr. John Wells 30

Benj" Peat, senr 8

Deacon Tim. Wilco.xson — 29^

Daniel Brinsmead's heirs 28^/

Cifpt. W°' Curtiss 26

Josiah Curtiss 6

Lieut. Thomas Knowles 12

Lieu' Agur Tomlinson 14

Ensign John Coe 21

James Clarke, senr 14

Sam" Uffoott 35

John Birdsey, senr 21

John Birdse_v, junr 12

John Burritt 19

James Weaklin 20 J4

Samuel Beers in Right of his
fartherjohn Beers, deceased 6

266 History of Stratford.

and assigned by George Tomson to John Swinton, by John
Swinton to Mr. Francis Scott, by Mr. Scott to Mr. George
Alexander, and b}'' Mr. George Alexander to me the said
Andrew Alexander by facture and his full power whereby I
the said Andrew Alexander do dispose and sell the two ser-
vants, my full power, title and right as is above expressed to
the said Andrew Winton his heirs and asigns and obliged me
to warrant the said Andrew Winton at the house of the fore-
named persons that they shall not molest nor trouble the said
Duncan or his master Andrew Winton through my seal of
this indenture being made at Edinburgh the 29 day of May
1684, which remains for the space of four years after their
arrival at east Jersey being the first of November, 1684, and
from that time they are to serve the said Andrew according to
the time of said indenture, and I oblige also me to warrant this
indenture from the above named persons, George Tomson, Mr.
Francis Scott, John Swinton and the said George Alexander.

In witness hereof 1 have written and subscribed obliga-
tory with my hand before these witnesses, Josiah Harvey,
Thomas Murrin indweller in Fairfield."

Ye 13*^ April, 1684. Andrew Alexander.

Signed in presence of us )

Josiah Harvey, Thomas Murrin. f

" These may certify whom it shall or may concern that I
Andrew Winton doth discharge and set at liberty to their
own will and pleasure the within mentioned Dunkin Gardner
and Margaret Gardner of and from the within servitude and
time within expressed and from all dues, debts and demands,
as witness my hand this 2^ day of July, Anoque Dom. 1685."

A Ladder Company.

1686. " It was voted that every householder in Stratford
shall provide a suitable lather to his house that will reach the
top of his house at least within — feet of the top, and what-
soever householder shall neglect providing a suitable lather
as aforesaid, above one month from this date, shall forfeit five
shillings, the one half to the complainer, the other half to the
town treasurer."

Items from the Tozvn Records. 267

ModlUif the French girl. " This indenture made the 24"'
of June, 1662, witnesseth that we the townsmen of Stratford
upon good and serious considerations moving us thereunto
doe bind out one Modlin a little girl about six years of ao-e,
that formerly did belong to a Frenchman that was in neces-
sity upon the town of Stratford ; we say, to John Minor of
Stratford, to him, his heirs and assigns, till the aforesaid girl
shall attayne the age of twenty-one years ; we say we bind
her with her father's consent; also a lawful apprentice to the
aforesaid John Minor till the aforesaid term of tyme shall be
fully and completely ended.

The aforesaid John Minor engages to provide her with
apparel and diet and bedding as may be suitable for such an
apprentice.

That this is our act and deed, and witnessed by subscrib-
ing the day and date above written.

Richard Booth, John Brinsmade, \
William Curtis, Caleb Nichols, v Townsmen."
Jeremiah Judson. )

^* Memoranda, that upon the 29*^ day of September,
1679, Sergt. Jeremiah Judson, constable, by order of the
selectmen was sent and forewarned Phillip Denman and his
mate Collins out of the town or from settling or abiding in
any part of our bounds.

And upon the 12*^ of November, 1679, Phillip Denman
and Daniel Collins by the townsmen, were warned as above."

Herders were employed to take care of the cattle which
were pastured in the woods. It was employment without as
much amusement, even as working in the harvest field
afforded, and hence men sometimes played truants.

"February 18, 1662. Samuel Fayrechild and Robert Lane,
Cow keepers for the year 1663, being detected of unfaithful-
ness in keeping the heard, the saved Samuel and Robert doe
owne they did leave the heard in the woods and come home
several days. This was owned in a public town meeting
before Mr. Sharman, February 18, 1662. Mr. Sharman hath
adjudged the above said Robert Lane and Samuel Fayrchild
to pay to the townsmen twenty shillings use."

268 History of Stratford.

Town Soundavies were intelligible to those who estab-
lished them, but are now a little indefinite and amusing. The
following is a sample.

"An agreement of ye agents of ye two towns of Stratford
and Fairfield this 24*'' of Aprill 1679, about ye bound between
ye two towns from ye Cheritree Southerly to ye Sea as itt
used to bee, and northerly from ye Cherytree to a stone
whereabouts a walnut tree growed, and from thence to a
rock by Henry Summer's fence, from thence to a tree near
ye path marked of ould with a cross south and north, from
thence to a heap of stones nearer ye path upon ye hill of
rocks in sight of ye rode, and from thence to the next marked
bound and so to Continue ye ould marked bound to ye extent
of our twelve miles. That this is our agreement wee attest
by subscribing our names, Joseph Hawley, Jehu Burr,
Francis Hall, John Wheeler, Samuel Morehouse."

This cherry tree stood in what is now Park Avenue near
the junction of that and Fairfield Avenue,

CHAPTER XL

PUSHING INTO THE WILDERNESS.

ROM cultivated fields to the wilderness was

M^ the change in the lives of the first settlers

P when they came to Stratford, and their

children, while yet some of the fathers were
living, pushed into the wilderness with a
courage and heroism equal to that which the
fathers themselves had shown. The spirit
of enterprise sent the planters to Stratford,
as well as to all New England, and when
once these planters had secured the proprie-
torship in something near 75,000 acres of
land, called Stratford township, there was
no diminution of the spirit of enterprise ;
and following them, their sons and daugh-
ters moved forward in the laborious work of
settling a great country in the rights and privileges of freedom.
These men took great care to secure the right to the soil
by fair, impartial, and even generous purchase from the native
owners. This done, they proceeded to divide, fairl}', and
even benevolently the domain thus equitably obtained.

When the company took possession of this territory they
evidently believed that the Connecticut Colony had secured
the right of soil as well as title to it, and proceeded upon that
understanding to divide the same to themselves and new set-
tlers as they came in. But after twelve or fifteen years,
when the settlement had assumed formidable proportions, the
Indians began to clamor for pay for the land which lay north
of an east and west line about six miles from the Sound, to
which the inhabitants agreed, and hence the several different
purchases made, as heretofore represented by the Indian
deeds, on page 22, and following.

270 History of Stratford.

Ansantavvay," the chief of Milford, presenting a claim, it
was payed in 1658, and then followed several others. Bray
Rossiter, of Guilford, secured 100 acres in payment of a debt.

In 1661 Joseph Judson made a purchase of a large tract
known as the Mohegan Hills, lying between the two bran-
ches of the Farmill river, containing about 5,000 acres. In
1673 the townsmen applied to the General Court to settle the
differences between the town and Joseph Judson as to the
ownership of this land. The Court appointed a time for
hearmg the claims in the matter, but it seems to have been
amicably settled without the help of the Court ; probably
about as the town had agreed before,^ and a division of this
tract was some years later made among the proprietors,
Joseph Judson retaining such a proportion as satisfied him
for the outlay in the purchase.

Another purchase was made in 1661, "a large tract of
land lying west from the Farmill river at Woronoke," it being
made by Joseph Judson, but probably in behalf of the town.

The tract of land between the Nearmill and Farmill
rivers was purchased in December, 1661, by Mr. Samuel
Sherman, John Hurd and Caleb Nichols — townsmen for the
town, and all proprietors had their proportion of it, in after
years.

On the 22d of April, 1662, was received a deed for the ter-
ritory of a considerable part of what is now the townships of
Trumbull, Monroe and Easton, " lying west of the land which
the town of Stratford had previously purchased," or west of

^ The frame of a house spoken of in a foot note on page 12 of this book as being
at Milford when the whites first came, was the frame of Ansantaway's large wig-
wam. In the summer the old chief occupied this tent, covering it with bark and
matting. The matting he took off and carried with him to his residence at Pau-
gasset for the winter.

° "The Town uppon y" 6th December, 1672, sufficient consideration moving
thereunto doe give grant and allow to Leif Joseph Judson the peacable improve-
ment of so much land, good and bad altogether lying at y" place commonly called
y« Mohegin Hills, ye hop-garden, meadow and lowland on both sides y® East
Spraine ofy® Far Mill Riveras high on that Sprayne as this accommodation reach-
eth, as is the proportion of an eight acre meadowed inhabitant to y* whole bounds,
with this proviso y* it shall not be expected to be all laid out at present but suc-
cessively as other proprietors."

Purchase of Territory. 271

the Pequonnock river, extending to Fairfield line and from a
line crossing the township east and west about at the Trum-
bull Church, or possibly a little further south, north to New-
town. This was the Long Hill purchase.

The last large tract was bought May 25, 1671, called the
White Hills purchase, and the agreement with the Indians
was, that this purchase should cover " all lands within the
bounds of Stratford," and no reservations whatever were
made— not even the usual " hunting and fishing."

There was no exceptions, not even the reservations at
Golden Hill or Coram, which had in all other deeds been
made, and there is reason for supposing that the inhabitants
believed these reservations were included, so that when the
Indians died or deserted them, there would be no more pur-
chasing of Indian claims. This is evident from the amount
paid — ^^50-14-6 — and the specific terms of the deed in which
the boundaries of the territory included are definitely given ;
— " Stratford river on the east, Fairfield on the west, and from
the sea twelve miles northward, as it is now settled by the
Court; . . . with all rights, titles, privileges, and appertenan-
ces thereunto belonging or in any manner of ways apper-
taining, which we do freely and absolutely resign and make
over unto the aforesaid inhabitants."

A tax was levied on the inhabitants of the town to raise
this purchase money and the record of it specifies that it was
for the " White Hills purchase, together with the expenses,
both to English and Indians, in and to the sale of all land
within the bounds of Stratford." In another record, as to the
expenses of this transaction, it is said : "all the charges and
expense of the White Hills and the confirmation of lands
within the bounds of Stratford."'

^ " A memorandum of all the Charges and Expenses about 3-e purchase of ye
White Hills and ye Confirmation of all lands within ye Bounds of Stratford :

To Mr. Richard Bryan for cloth coats, . . . ;i{^i6-oo-oo

Mr. Alexander Bryan for goods to ye Indians for ye same

land, ....... 2-11-00

Mr. Hawley for goods to ye Indians for ye White Hills pur-
chase, ....... 3-10-00

Mr. Hawley for entertainment of ye Indians at y' time with

his own time, ...... i-oo-oo

272

History of Stratford.

This tax list is interesting, not only as showing the pro-
portion of each man's proprietorship — not each man's wealth
— but the number of, and who were the inhabitants of the
town at the time, it being just two years before the Wood-
bur}^ company removed.

It is further evident that the inhabitants supposed they
settled all claims from the Indians, on the reservations,
from the fact that the town voted, February 8, 1674, to lay
out Golden Hill " by way of division to every proprietor
according to his proportion," and appointed a committee to
do the work; and in 1677, this reservation was divided to the
proprietors of the town, then numbering just 100, and they
" drew lots" to effect an impartial distribution.

This is not all, for in the settlement of the question of
the support or location of the Indians in 1659, on the 80
acres on Golden Hill, the Court directed, "that in case these
Indians shall wholly, at any time, relinquish and desert Gold
Hill, that then it shall remain to Stratford plantation, they
repaying to Fairfield the one-half of that which they re-
ceived in consideration of the said land. They had received
from Fairfield twenty pounds and therefore should have paid
ten pounds only.

The next year, 1678, the Indians — there being a few
left — made complaint, or some whites for them, to the General
Court, and that authority prohibited the Stratford men from
taking or using any of the 80 acres or reservation. Thus the

Mr. Fayrechild for his entertainment of ye Indians at ye
same time with his own time, ....

Ensign Judson for his time about that purchase,

Thos. Uffoot for expenses to ye Indians,

John Minor for interpreting, and his time about Pequonnuck
Indians in order to what was done at ye General Court,
Surveying whole Bounds of ye town May, '71, .

To Mr. East for trading cloth,

To Mr. Bryan for goods upon ye same account,

To Mr. Hawley for one coat upon that account,

To Mr. Benjamin Black for goods to pay ye Indians,

To Mr. Henman credit for his time,
[Records efTaced]

£ o-io-oo

0-18-00

• o- I 0-00

8-oS-oS
7-13-00
1-12-06
I -00-00
2-10-00
0-05-00
1-16-00
3-13-06
2-06-00"

Extendiug the Settlement. 273

matter was left nearly one hundred years, until 1765, when 70
acres of this land cost the town of Stratford nearly one hun-
dred pounds, a part of which was placed as a fund for the
support of the three Indian claimants, then the only remain-
ing ones known.

The equity of this cost is doubtful, since the land had, in
fact, been paid for one hundred years before, as all the people
of Stratford understood the matter; but it is probable that
some persons outside of the town of Stratford feared that
these Indians might need support from the state, and if a
fund could be raised by Stratford paying twice, or thrice, for
this land it would save other people from bearing the ex-
pense.

From this time — 1671 — foward the proprietors proceeded
to divide their entire territory, except the two Indian reser-
vations, and clear and improve the same with great rapidity,
securing abundant remuneration. The soil was rich, the pro-
duce abundant, and although money was scarce, nobody
suffered for want of food, unless they deserved it, because too
lazy to work; but now days it is not so, for often hard-work-
ing persons do suffer because of want.

During all this time, and the work of extending the pur-
chased territory, most of the inhabitants were residing in the
village of Stratford, within a distance of two miles from the
meeting-house.*

In the list of the inhabitants for March,' 1668, there
were recorded five " outlivers," or persons living beyond the
two mile limits.

These were John Wheeler, Obadiah Wheeler and Hope
Washburn, at Oronoke, and Theophilus Sherman and Mat-
thew Sherman, at the east end of Old Mill Green.

It is quite certain that the three families were at Oro-
noke, for Hope Washburn sold, in 1668, to Samuel Mills, a

^ January, 16S5. Whereas, several town acts have been passed for granting
lands to the proprietors, but not to come within two miles of the town, and there
being no particular place stated where to begin the measure for the two miles, it
is, therefore, voted that the meeting-house shall be the place itated to begin at for
the future,"

^ See page 179 of this book.

274 History of Stratford.

new man in the town, three acres of land, and in 1670, Samuel
Mills sold his " house, barn and home lot lying at Woronoke,"
to Hugh Makie.

On the 24th of June, 1678, Nathaniel Foot, another new
man, received liberty from the town to settle at Oronoke.

At that time there were probably scattering settlers along
the main road from Stratford village northward as far as
Peck's Mills, and a few at Oronoke, and six years later — Feb-
ruary, 1684, — an agreement was made by James Blakeman,
with a committee of the town, to build "a corn mill at the
mouth of the Nearmill river, and he doth engage to grind
their wheat and rye for a sixteenth part, and their corn for a
twelfth part, and all malt for a thirtieth part, provided there
is brought five bushels at a time. He also engageth to bring
the black brook to run into the Nearmill river to feed it, if
it may be done with three pounds charges.

" For which the committee gave the stream and 15 acres
of land to build on, as near the mill as may be."

James Blakeman, in 1660, was the miller, and owned the
property at the tide mill near the eagle's nest, and in 1663 he
sold the mill property at Old Mill Green to Mr. Samuel Sher-
man, having conducted it, probably, three or four yjears ; and
hence the town knew the man the}- trusted to build a new
mill at the place now called Peck's Mills.

In 1676 the town gave liberty to James Blakeman to
build a saw mill at the mouth of Farmill river, which was,
probably, the first mill there.

FequonnocW was the Indian name applied by the
English to the territory where the city of Bridgeport now
stands. The township of Stratford was bounded on the west
by the Fairfield line, and that line was to be the center of a
highway, and this road to be eight rods wide, for in some of
the deeds of land given by the town, it specified carefully
that four rods on the Stratford side should be reserved for a
highway, and the same reservation was made by the town of
Fairfield on its side of the line. It is a misfortune that that

' This spelling has become established by use in the localit)' and hence is
here continued.

Pequonnock Fields. 275

highway, now the magnificent Park Avenue of Bridgeport,
had not been retained 132 feet wide.

As the Indian name Pequonnock indicates, there was a
large cleared field or fields in the western and northern parts
of this territory when the English first came here. The
cleared land southwest of Golden Hill was called Pequon-
nock field, and was divided by the boundary line between
Fairfield and Stratford, and that part of it belonging to
Stratford was fenced, in one enclosure, and still called
Pequonnock field, and was used for raising grain. In 1657 it
was laid out to the proprietors in such a manner that each
proprietor's proportion is said to have been "two-thirds of
a division, and in William Beardsley's case and others,
amounted to eighteen acres for each.

The Indian reservation contained 80 acres la3ang in
nearly a square plot, the boundary line passing from the river
west nearly on the present Elm street to Courtland street, or
a little further west and thence northward about 150 rods,
thence east crossing Main street about where now Washing-
ton avenue crosses it.

North of this reservation were two plains, called fre-
quently the upper and lower plains, but the upper one was
more frequently called the Calf-pens plain, because the cattle
were pastured in that region and the calves putin pens while
young. These two plains were early — from 1657 to 1665 —
divided into plots for meadow and farming, and in several of
the deeds occurs the name "Ireland's Brook" — now degraded
to Island Brook — but whence the name is not known, indicat-
ing that the first settlers may have located in that vicinity.

The first settlers west of Pequonnock river, in Stratford,
were Henry Summers, Sen., and his two sons Henr}- and
Samuel, and Samuel Gregory; and they seem to have come
here in the year 1665, and some years later Samuel Gregory's
house stood near the junction of the present Washington and
Park avenues.

Soon after these came John Beardsley and his brother
Samuel Beardsley, and Henry Summers, Sen., removed to
Milford, but his two sons remained here on the homestead, it
being divided to them.

276 History of Stratford.

Slowly the settlement increased, spreading northward
along what was afterwards known far and near as Toilsome
Hill road, the land having been laid out for the distance of
three miles at one time, which probably reached nearly to the
long hill purchase. The name Toilsome Hill, arose from the
steepness of several portions of it, and the winding of the
road in order to effect the ascent. When the height is
reached it affords a beautiful and extensive view over the
Sound and along the Long Island coast.

When the settlers first made their dwellings here there
were several hundred Indians resident on the reservation, for
it is said by Dea. Isaac Sherman in his manuscript notes, that
the wigwams numbered at least one hundred when the whites
began to settle here, that is, about 1670. There may have
been three or four families here as early as 1665.

Gradually the settlement grew and prospered, the inhab-
itants attending church at Stratford, a distance of three miles,
nearly thirty years, when in 1695 the ecclesiastical society of
Stratfield was organized and a church established.

Old JMill Green was a flourishing and an aristocratic
part of the town of Stratford from about the year 1700 until
after 1800. It is at the present time a beautiful part of the
city of Bridgeport, but was a wild wilderness country when
first traveled by white men. The land was a plain, and rich,
and hence the trees were large and tall.

The first white persons who traveled through the forests
here were in pursuit of the Pequots who fled from their
burned forts near Norwich, Connecticut, and who doubtless
were conducted by friendly Indians along an Indian path in
the summer of 1637. This Indian path was continued, being
used by the English at Stratford to reach their fields at
Pequonnock, about forty years before it was made a legal
highway; the path crossing the Pequonnock river about
where the Old Mill Green road does now.

In 1679 the General Court ordered certain roads to be
constructed in the Colony, as " Country roads or King's
highways;"* and such ways were for more than a hundred

* "Maj-, 1679. This Court orders that the present roads from plantation to

Old Mill Green. 277

years known by these names. The town act establishing this
as a highway, was passed in 1685, in the following words:
"All the uplands and marshes lying southward of the road
leading to Fairfield, between the physicall spring and the

uppermost cartway over Brook shall be left for a per-

petual common," and twenty rods in breadth shall be left for
a road to Fairfield bounds."

The "physical spring" is that lately called the sulphur
springs, about which some considerable excitement was
raised a few years since, but no successful effort has been
made to make a medical resort.

The intention of the above vote, doubtless, was to have
the highway twenty rods wide from its commencement to
Fairfield line, and it was probably so laid out in 1687, ''^s they
were that year required to do it by the Court; but some
years later the proprietors of the town sold much of the land
in the wide highways and reduced their width. It is also
said that Theophilus Nichols, a little after 1700, then living
at Old Mill Green, was largely influential in preserving the
green at its present width, which is twelve rods at the west
end and fifteen at the school house. The road was continued
in Fairfield at an unusual width as it still remains. It has
been known in name as the Old King's highway just two
hundred years, but is in danger of losing its monarchical title
for one more in harmony with the government of the country
in which it is located.

This Old Mill Green is the part of the Old King's high-
way from Mill brook, westward to the Pequonnock river, and
was so called from the mill which was built on Mill brook in
1654, by John Hurd, Sen., and Thomas Sherwood, Sen., and
by the time there were such a number of settlers along this

plantation shall be reputed the country roads or King's highway, and so to remain
until the Court do see good reason to make alteration of the same. And whereas,
each plantation is by law required once a 3-ear to work a day in clearing the brush,
it is by this Court recommended to the townsmen of the several plantations to
improve their inhabitants in clearing the common roads, in the first place, that lie
between town and town, until the said roads are cleared at least one rod wide."
Coll. Rec, iii. 30.

'^ This included a large part of Clapboar Hill.

278 History of Stratford.

road as to form a community of social life, the first mill had
become old, and hence the name, Old Mill Hill and Old Mill
Green.

The old mill was called a corn mill, but all kinds of grain
were ground by it. It had several owners. Thomas Sher-
wood, who was partner in building it, soon sold his share to
John Hurd, who sold it to Alexander Bryan of Milford, and
he to James Blakeman, who sold half of it to his brother,
Samuel Blakeman, in 1662, who settled here, probably in the
house, or built him a house on the south side of the highway
near the brook, as this land with quite a number of acres,
belonged to the mill property. Here he died in 1668, and his
widow afterwards married Jacob Walker. She had only two
children living, both daughters, one five years of age and the
other, one, when her husband died, but had considerable
property. Her mother-in-law, Mrs. Jane Blakeman, resided
with her in March, 1668-9, and hence she is recorded that
year as an " outliver.'""

James Blakeman sold his half of the old mill Dec. 4, 1663,
with considerable land, to Samuel Sherman, Sen., who soon
purchased more land here, and placed his three sons, Edward,
Matthew and Samuel as residents in this vicinity. In 1680
Edward and Matthew were living on the east side of the
brook, north of the highway, and Samuel west of the brook,
south of the highway.

Various mills have been in use at this old mill place, the
first one standing probably on the north side of the highway.
For some years before 1800, a bark mill and tannery were in
operation here. The last was a wool carding mill in 1818."

'" See page 179 of this book.

'^ From the Republican Farmer, Oct. 17, 1818.

"WOOL CARDING."
The subscribers have their machine in complete operation. Wool brought to
the machine will meet with immediate despatch, and wool left at Burritt's and
Sherman's, Bridgeport and at Daniel DeForest's, Stratford, will be attended to
once or twice a week. The subscribers feel thankful for past favors and solicit a
continuance of them.

B. & M. SlLLIMAN & Co.

Old Mill, 8th June, 1818."

Old Mill Green.

279

The point of land south of Old Mill Green, reaching to
the Sound, lying between Mill brook on the east, and the
Pequonnock river west was known from about 1650, for two
hundred years, as New Pasture field, and the southern end
of it New Pasture point. It was fenced into one field for a
pasture, but not long after became a field for raising grain, in
which case the cattle were excluded by the fence which had
before kept them in. When used as a pasture it may have
been much smaller, the fence crossing the neck further south,
but later, the fence ran on the south side of the green, appa-
rently, and was divided anew in 1692, into 46 sections in pro-
portion to the number of acres each person owned within the
inclosure,'" but these owners did not all nor half of them,
reside at the green.

The first movement made, that finally resulted in a mill

'■^ " A record of the general fence for the new pasture from y® mill brook to
Paquanock river being just eleven foott to one acre of land ; the first lot
begining at y^ s"* mill brook, and being measured by a pole eleven foott long
which is for one Acre of land — first lott Daniell Mitchell for 22 acres 22 pole.

1 Daniell Mitchell 22

2 Ebenezer Booth 24^

3 Nathaniel Sherman 21

4 Benjamin Sherman 21

5 John Bostick -..04

6 Stephen and John Burritt.ii

7 Samuel Sherman 05

8 Ebenezer Blakeman 06

q Thomas Knowles 04

10 Ebenezer Hubbell 10^

11 Widow Rayner .12

12 Samuel Peat -.07

13 Samuel Galpin -09

14 John Wells -02^

15 Jonathan Nicolls 06

16 Mr. Samuel Sherman, sen. 13^^

17 Daniell Pickett 03^^

18 Deacon Wilcockson 05

19 James Judson 03

20 John Brooks 04

21 John Pickett 031^

22 Thomas Pickett 03

23 Ambross Thompson 20

Recorded April 28, 1692."

pole.

24 John Hubbell ..06

25 The Hawleys 36

26 Agur Tomlinson 11

27 Daniel Brinsmead 07^

28 Paul Brinsmead io|^

29 John Hurd 18

30 Joseph Curtiss 04^

31 Isaac Hurd. 03

32 Benjn and Hannah Nicollso7^

33 William Piglee [Pixlee]..i5

34 Charles Dugles I2j^

35 Capt. Curtiss 12

36 John Birdsey 04

37 Joseph Blakeman 06

38 Joseph Watkins .13

39 Nicolas Huse 10

40 Joseph Booth 04

41 Weaklins, Dil and James. 05^

42 Benjamin Curtiss 04^^

43 Thomas Wells 08

44 John Coe 03

45 Ephraim Booth 04

46 Thomas Pickett .03

pole.

28o History of Stratford.

on the Pequonnock river a little way above the old King's
highway, began in May, 1691, when the town granted liberty
to Matthew Sherwood, John and Matthew Sherwood, Jr.,
"to set up a gristmill and sawmill on Pequonnock river
above the road where it may be thought most convenient;"
but the mill was not built until a number of years after that
time. The next grant was to John Seeley in 1697.

The river at this place was without a bridge, at least,
until the date of the following town vote :

"Third Tuesday, Dec. 1736. Sergt. Richard NicoUs,
Nathaniel Sherman and Peter Pixlee were chosen a commit-
tee to endeavor that a cart bridge be built over Pequonnock
river in the Grand Country Road at the town's charge, pro-
vided that particular persons do appear to build the butments,
in the whole, thirty feet free of any town charge."

The committee to take the oversight of the New pasture
field in 1718, consisted of Capt. John Hawley, Mr. Benjamin
Sherman and Sergt. Richard Nichols, and the pound keeper
was John Hurd, all residing at Old Mill Green.

The large rude mile-stone standing on this green, was
set there by the direction of Benjamin Franklin, while he was
Colonial Postmaster, between the years 1753 and 1774, a most
interesting monument of the days when public improvements
began at a great venture as well as enterprise. Mau}-
of these stones are still standing along this ancient highway
between New York and New Haven.

The beginning of a separate school in this locality was
inaugurated by a town vote in 1717, to allow them " their
part of the 40 shillings per thousand allowed by law and the
appointment of Sergt. John Hurd, and Sergt. Andrew Patter-
son, as committee. Thi« seems to be the first occurrence of
the name Pembroke, spelled then Pembrook.

OronoUe began to be settled about 1665, the first inhab-
itants, John Wheeler, Obadiah Wheeler and Hope Washburn
settled at Farmill river, and a little way south of it. In 1666
Samuel Mills settled there, and in 1667 Ephraim Stiles and
Samuel Stiles became land owners there and soon made it
their place of residence.

Prominent Men of Oronoke. 281

Other inhabitants soon followed, and in January, 1705-6,
the town granted Ephraim Stiles the privilege of setting up
a gristmill at Farmill river, a little below Black brook, and
granted liberty to Lt. Agur Tomlinson to maintain a fulling-
mill there. At that time the inhabitants at that place had
become quite numerous, and it was an influential part of the
town.

General David Wooster was born there in 1710, and in
the Revolution it was a center of much public influence and
activity, while for fifty or more years afterwards some of the
most noted families of the town resided there. It is still a
most beautiful locality, even from Stratford village to Farmill
river; the residences are beautifully located along the river
banks, and are kept in fine style, so that a five mile drive
along the old Oronoke road is one of the most attractive of
which the town can boast.

The spirit of Education began to be fostered at that place
by the following vote :

"January 11, 1716-17. Voted, that the farmers at Long
hill, Oronoke, Putnee, Mohegin hill. Trap falls, Fairchilds and
Nichols lakes and Pambrook, shall have the use of their part
of the 40 shillings per thousand allowed by law for seven
years ensuing, providing they educate their children accor-
ding to law."

Several men raised at this place — including what is now
Oronoke and Putney school districts — were graduated at
college and did honor to the world and their day and gene-
ration. One, David Wooster, became a General in the United
States army ; another, Gideon Tomlinson, became a Governor
of the State and then a Representative and also a Senator in
Congress; another, Nathan Birdseye, became a clergyman
and lived to be over one hundred years of age ; several be-
came officers in the militia and served in the French War
and in the Revolution.

" May, 1727. Upon the petition to Thomas Gilbert of
Oronoque in the township of Stratford, for liberty to set up a
ferry at the said Oronoque, about four miles northward of the
ferry called Stratford ferry: This Court grant unto the said
Thomas Gilbert the liberty or privilege of setting up a ferry

282 History of Stratford.

for the transportation of passengers across the river called
Oronoque River, during- the pleasure of this Court, and order
that the fare shall be the same with the fare appointed for
Stratford ferry.""

In 1759 the like privilege was granted by the same
authority to Zechariah Blakeman, Jr.

Division of the common lands was a matter of great
difficulty, expense and dissatisfaction in Stratford, which con-
tinued until after the year 1800.

Up to about 1670 persons selected their lands wherever
they desired, subject to the sanction of the committee or
townsmen. In the Spring of 1680, "the town agreed to lay
out all lands within six miles of the town" [meetinghouse],
and appointed a committee to do it. In the autumn of the
same year " the town voted to lay out one hundred or one
hundred and six score acres, as may be found convenient, at
the north and northwest end of the town," and appointed a
committee to ascertain " what land might be convenient for
such a division."

In 1687, a tract of land within two miles of the meeting
house, lying, apparently, north of the Fairfield road, was
ordered to be laid in lots, yet kept in common, " in a general
way only for herbage for the proper use and benefit of the
town in general and poor of the place, for them and their
heirs forever; timber, wood, clay and stone to be free for
each inhabitant, to be taken off the land without molestation
from any person. Also, it is voted that the land lying south-
ward of Fairfield road between the place called Ireland's
Brook and Snake Brook hill, shall be laid out and improved
in the same way and manner.

The lots north of the Fairfield road were laid in strips
the whole length of the tract, and hence was called the
"Slip, or pasture division." After many years it was also
called the Farm, for in remeasuring the lots in 171 1, many of
them are said to be bounded on the " Farm Highway."

The acts of the proprietors of common lands were per-
formed in the town meetings, non-proprietors not being

'' Col. Rec, vii. 102.

Land Divisions. 283

allowed to vote until March, 1723-4, when the proprietors
met according to notification and organized into a separate
body; appointed a committee to ascertain all the claimants
of these lands in order to a complete adjustment of all rights
in the matter. They voted, also, to lay out a division of all
their undivided lands in the township, six miles from town,'^
with the allowance of sufficient highways and commons; and
appointed a committee to do it.

This placed the whole north end of the township, beyond
six miles, into one plot to be divided, and on Mav 18, 1724,
having ascertained, as they supposed, the names of all par-
ties, they voted to divide the whole plot into 144 lots, that
being the whole number ; drew a plan of every lot and placed
it on record in the town book. In this plan there are twelve
ranges of lots, each range 160 rods wide, running north and
south, six miles long, and the lots running east and west
across the range of lots.

The peculiarity of this proposition is that they voted to
have "a highway twenty rods wide between each range of
lots;" with cross highways in every range eight rods wide.
This would have been a picturesque township — eleven high-
ways, six miles long, twenty rods wide, within the distance of
about ten miles. But the early settlers were not accustomed
to such an estimate of the picturesque as to throw awa}^ 440
acres of land in half a township, not by a very great difTerence.
What, then, was the idea in making such wide highways?
One and only one : common pasturage for sheep and cattle.

But this plan of this great " North Division " was not
carried into effect, although the lots were actually drawn for
144 proprietors, on the i8th of May, 1724, by Capt. Edmund
Lewis; for it was soon found that the number of proprietors
was considerably larger than had been obtained, and that
other obstacles were more effectual against it than had been
supposed, especially that a considerable portion of this land
had been already taken up and some of. it occupied by actual
settlers.

Thus the matter stood until Jan., 1732-3, when "the

'- The word town was often used to designate the village.

284

History of Stratford.

proprietors voted to lay out first the highways in the land
six miles distant from the old meeting house," these high-
ways " running nbrtherly and southerly from the end of six
miles to the northerly part of Stratford bounds, as wide as by
said committee may be thought needful," and the cross high-
ways the same. In this final draft there were 199 claimants,
and Capt. Edmund Lewis drew the lots."

'•^ " At a Proprietors meeting of y^ proprietors of Common undivided Land
in Stratford held by adjournment on the last Monday of November A. D. 1738.

Here followeth an account of y^ draught of y" Lots voted to be drawn at the
proprietors meeting October 3 Monday 1738."

I 35 Timothy Titharton.

1 Nathan Hawley.

2 Heirs of Samuel Wheeler.

3 Elisebeth Curtiss.

4 Heirs of Benj. Blakeman.

5 Zachariah Curtiss, Jr.

6 Nathan Beach.

7 James Booth.

8 Heirs of W"' Jeans.

9 Jonathan Beardslee.

10 Sarah Beach.

11 Heirs of Joseph Fairchild.

12 Israel Beardslee.

13 Capt. Richard Hubbell,

14 Samuel French, Joiner.

15 Eben. Hurd.

16 Capt. John Coe.

17 William Standard and wife.

18 Nathan Curtis and Eunice his wife.

19 Heirs of Isaac Stiles.

20 David Hubbell.

21 Samuel Hall.

22 John Oatman.

23 Ephraim Clark.

24 Nathaniel Hawley.

25 Samuel DeForest.

26 Capt. David Sherman.

27 Daniel Shelton's heirs.

28 Jonadab Bassett.

29 Jose Seele.

30 Samuel Blagge.

31 Elnathan Wheeler.

32 Dea. Ephraim Judson.

33 Wid. Joanna Hawley.

34 James Fairchild.

36 Zach. Beardslee.

37 Thaddeus Gregory.

38 Thomas Beardslee.

39 Zach. Booth.

40 Joseph Nichols, Jr.

41 Robert Walker.

42 Benjamin Lewis.

43 Mr. Eph"" Curtiss and wife.

44 Heirs of Jose Blakeman.

45 Jonathan Curtiss.

46 Caleb Beardslee.

47 Tim. Wheler.

48 Ephraim Bennett.

49 John Curtiss.

50 Heirs of Jose Beardslee.

51 Samuel Uffoot.

52 Ens. Jonas Wooster.

53 Enoch Gregory.

54 Heirs of David Wakelin.

55 Zachariah Totnlinson.

56 Samuel French, Jr.

57 James Hubbell.

58 Heirs of Daniel Beardslee, Stratfield.

59 Josiah Gilbert.

60 Heirs of Abel Curtiss.

61 David Sherman, Jr.

62 Mary and Jeremiah Judson.

63 Samuel Hawley and wife.

64 Heirs of Arthur Perry.

65 Jose Hawley.

66 John Fairchild.

67 Joseph Booth.

68 Daniel Hyde.

Proprietors of Coviuwji Lands.

285

Sequestered lands, so called, were laid out at various
times for pasture lands, and when the plan ot wide hii^hways
failed at the north end of the town, they then set apart sev-
eral hundred acres for the purpose of pasturage for sheep.

" March, 1734-5. Voted that all the common lands
within two miles distance from the old society meeting-house
shall be, and is, sequestered a perpetual common for the use

69 William Peat,

70 Mrs. Theophilus Nichols.

71 Zachariah Blakeman.

72 Benjamin Burton.

73 Heirs of Timothy Fairchild.

74 Nathaniel Sherman.

75 Daniel Brinsmade.

76 Enos Sherman.

77 John Levensvvorth.
7S Nath' Wakelee.

79 Edward Lacee and wife.

80 John Clark, Jr.

81 Gideon Hawle3r's heirs.

82 John Thompson.

83 Josiah Beardslee.

84 Richard Nichols.

85 Matthew Curtiss.

86 Ebenezer Beach.

87 Daniel Curtiss.

88 Nathan Bennett,

89 Mr. John Edwards.

90 Ens. Samuel Gregory.

91 Robert McEwen.

92 Heirs of John Cluckstone.

93 Heirs of Marcy Rose.

94 Nathan Wheeler.

95 Stephen Burroughs.

96 Heirs of James Selee.

97 Hezekiah Gold.

98 Thomas Gilbert.

99 Comfort wife of David Latten.

100 James Levensworth.
loi Jonathan Nichols.

102 Henry Hawley.

103 Heirs of Capt. John Wells.

104 Stiles Curtiss.

105 Heirs of Jacob Wakelee.

106 William Fanton.

107 Heirs of Nathan Fairchild.

108 John Hubbell.

109 Nathan Curtiss and wife,
no David Beardslee.

111 Edward Lacee.

112 John Nichols.

113 Heirs of Nat. Shearman.

114 Capt. Jose Judson.

115 Seign'' Lewis.

116 Daniel Porter.

117 Heirs of Nathan Porter.

118 John Patterson.

119 Charles Burritt.

120 Capt. Jose Nichols.

121 Thomas Latten.

122 Daniel Pickett.

123 Capt. James Judson.

124 Thomas Wells and wife.

125 Daniel Hawley.

126 James Laboree.

127 Benjamin Booth.

128 Capt. James 1 ewis.

129 Heirs of Thomas Knowles.

130 Jonathan Nichols.

131 Samuel Osborn's heirs.

132 Mr. Samuel Cook,

133 Heirs of Mr. Joseph Blacklach.

134 Robert Walker, Jr.

135 Jose Birdsey.

136 Jose Beardslee.

137 Ebenezer Blackman.
T3S Nathan Blackman.

139 Heirs of Samuel Judson.

140 Ebenezer Thompson.

141 Mr. Jedidiah Mills.

142 Joseph Burritt.

143 Heirs of Thomas Hawley.

144 Zachariah Curtiss, sen.

145 Jose Lewis.

146 Ephraim Watkins.

286

History of Stratford.

and benefit of the proprietors according to their propriety, as
formerly fixed by the selectmen in 1689; and also 100 acres
in Bear Swamp Rocks, 100 acres near Broad Bridge. Voted
that 800 acres of ruff land be surveyed, and is sequestered . , .
in the parish of Ripton for a perpetual common ... at the
places hereafter named: by the Farmill river, at Corum
burying place, Knell's Rocks, Quimbie's Hill, about Moose
hill, by Barn hill, north by Bagburn, by the Great river south
of Pine Swamp on both sides the east Sprain of the far mill
river.

" Voted that three hundred acres of Ruff land are sequest-
ered in the parish of Unity — by Turkey meadow Sprains, by
saw mill, by Butternut swamp, by Walker's hill west of
Daniel's Farm.

" Voted that 300 acres in the parish of Stratfield — at the
place below Ox hill, west of Rocky hill near Canoe brook.

147 David Booth.

14S John Willcockson and wife.

149 Capt. David Judson and wife.

150 Nathan Beardsley of Stratfield.

151 Ens. Samuel Fairchild.

152 Joseph Wells.

153 Peter Pixlee.

154 John Hawle}\

155 Zach. Clark.

156 Benjamin Beach.

157 Nathan Wheeler .

158 Heirs of John Bostwick.

159 Heirs of George Searls.

160 Ens. John Porter.

161 Peter Curtiss.

162 Robert Wells.

163 Heirs of Jose Beach.

164 James Sherman.

165 Jonathan Wakelee and wife.

166 David and Sarah Wells.

167 William Curtiss.

168 Timo. Sherman.

169 Heirs of Jacob Walker.

170 Ebenezer Gregor}'.

171 James Wakelee.

172 John Beardslee's heirs.

173 Heirs of Thomas Sherwood.

Town Acts, B. i. 78.

174 Capt. Abraham Wooster.

175 Sarah, Jon. Clark's wife.

176 Heirs of Samuel Summers.

177 Samuel Sherman.

178 Heirs of John Blackman.

179 Lt. Abel Birdsey.

180 Zechariah Brinsmade.

181 Eben. Curtis.

182 Joshua Judson's heirs.

183 Heirs of Theoph. Sherman.

184 Joseph Curtiss.

185 Edmund Lewis, Esq.

186 Sarah Everitt.

187 Ambrose Thompson, Jr.

188 Andrew Patterson.
1S9 Tonas Curtiss.

190 William Patterson,
igi Abram Nichols, Jr.

192 John Beardsle of Stratfield.

193 William Beach.

194 Benjamin Brooks.

195 Daniel Nichols.

196 Judson Burton.

197 Heirs of Robert Wells.

198 Heirs of Eben. Hawley.

199 Elisha Blagge.

Names of Localities. 287

" The whole to remain common until the proprietors
agree to the contrary."

In 'October, 1738, they voted that the sequestered lands
should " lie in common for the use of the proprietors so long
as the neat [net] earnings of the flock or flocks of sheep in
Stratford going and feeding thereon, shall be paid to the pro-
prietors of the said land."

Local names are mentioned in laying out highways, in
deeds of land, in wills, and divisions of land.

"January, 1691. Richard Blacklach hath a parcel of
land in the woods at Ocquanquage, bounded on the south
with the west sprain of the Farmill river, on the east with a
highway that runs on the easterly side of Ocquanquage
plains, on the west with a rock at the southwest corner, and
on the west with a high hill." And in March, 1723, a high-
way laid out " the whole length of Ocquanquage plain, on
the easterly side of it, beginning by the side of the west sprain
of the Farmill river, northward, full 16 rods wide, then east
full 18 rods wide."

" In June, 1727, a highway was recorded as lying " upon
Pissepunk hill ; and about 1710, John Pickett had land laid to
him 'lying on the southwesterly side of Pissepunk brook.'"
Pissepunk is an Indian name. " It doubtless came from an
Indian 'hot house,' somewhere on or near this hill. 'This
hot house is a kind of little cell or cave, six or eight feet over,
round, made on the side of the hill, commonly by some rivu-
let or brook ; into this frequently the men enter alter they
have exceedingly heated it with store of wood, laid upon an
heap of stones in the middle.'"'

" 1676. Thomas Clark hath 4 acres near the nearmill
river commonly called Scutt's spring."

"April, 1711. A lot of land was laid to Josiah Curtiss
lying on Wigwam hill."

About 1714, land was laid to John Hurd " on the plain
called Weeping plain, part on both sides of the west sprain of
the Farmill river, on the west side of the Hundred hills . . .

'■' J. H. Trumbull's Indian Names.

288 History of Stratford.

lying on the west side of the hundred hills on the east side of
a swamp called weeping plain swamp."

April, 1714, " a lot of land, originally laid out to Mr.
Samuel Sherman, sen., 55 acres, at a place called tilesom,
bounded southwest with highway between Fairfield and
Stratford." This " Tilesom " was afterwards written and
pronounced Toilsome.

" 1714, one piece of land southward of Castle hill."
In February, 1691-2, Robert Bassett bought land on Tur-
key Hill at Coram; and the next June he had laid out " 100
acres, by way of division, lying in the woods on the east of
Paquannock river against Mount Moriah, bounded on the
west with that sprain of Paquannock river that runs east of
Rock-house Hill and a great plain on the east side of Paquan-
nock river that lyeth southward of the sprain of said river."

Tanneries for making leather were not numerous dur-
ing the first fifty years of plantation life at Stratford. No
record of any has been seen before 1690, except the name
Tanner's brook in the northern part of Stratford village,
which name implies that some tanning enterprise may have
been conducted upon it at a very early period, as the name
occurs early, about 1660.

The following are town records on this subject :

" January 20, 1691. The town, by vote, gave unto Joseph
Booth three rods square of land for a tan-yard, lying on both
sides the run of water near his dwelling house to be for him
the said Booth, his heirs and assigns, so long as they shall
keep and maintain the trade of tanning."

"January 13, 1696. Mr. Ephraim Stiles requested the
town that they would be pleased to grant him about forty
feet of ground at VVoronock, lying between the home that
was Hope Washborn's, and the house belonging to the heirs
of James Blakeman, in order for the setting up of tan-fats,
and the town granted his request."

Another enterprise, the first of the kind that has been
seen as recorded in the town books explains itself.

Wolves were a great annoyance and an expensive crea-
ture in the vicinitv of Stratford. Premiums of various

A Great Wolf Hunt. 289

amounts were offered by the town, at different times, in addi-
tion to the premiums offered by the Colony or county ; yet
the animals rather increased than diminished.

In 1687 the premium stood at thirty-two shillings for
each one killed, and that figure seeming too expensive, it was
reduced to twelve shillings.

Thus it seems to have stood a number of years, when the
creatures so increased that a monster wolf hunt was organized.

" April 17, 1693. Voted that all persons ratable should
be allowed for man and horse in this service of destroying
wolves, three shillings per day out of the town treasury."

" It was voted and agreed that the next Thursday shall
be the day to goe upon this business of killing wolves, if the
weather permit, or the next fair day ; all persons to be ready
by seven of the clock in the morning, and meet upon the hill
at the meeting-house, by the beat of the drum.

" The town, by vote, made choice of Captain Burritt,
Lieut. Beardslee, Ens. Judson, Mr. Samuel Sherman [Jr.],
Ephraim Stiles, Daniel Beardslee, Daniel Curtiss, Ebenezer
Curtiss, Sergt. Knowles, Joseph Curtiss, Benjamin Curtiss,
Lieut. Tomlinson, Nathaniel Sherman and Joseph Curtiss to
be overseers of this affayre, and authorized them with full
power to order, dispose and direct all and every person that
shall goe upon this work from time to time, and all persons
are to observe and attend their directions."

How much this expedition cost the town, or how many
wolves were killed, has not been ascertained, but it must have
been such an imposing, formidable war-like demonstration as
to indicate considerable vengeance on the wolves. By another
vote in 1696, when each person was to receive only six pence
every time he went out in a certain expedition, the cost to
the town was fourteen pound, nineteen shillings and *six
pence.

Hence, the expense of killing wolves, and the value of
the creatures destroyed by the wolves, was quite an item of
yearly loss to the toiling citizens of those early days.

Between 1690 and 1700, specially, and largely thereafter
for many years, town meetings were held frequently, trans-
actions of much importance in the settlement of the town-

290

History of Stratford.

ship enacted and a list of officers elected." The business of
the town meetings occupied so much time that often the.
meeting was adjourned to a second day.

The town clerks, in recording the proceedings of the meet-
ings, were very careful to give the title to every man's name
as regularly as the name occurred. The list of town officers
was, at first, very short, but it had the energy of increase to
marvelous proportions. When the law giving ecclesiastical
societies separate offices and officers, the town list was some-
what shortened, but if there was more than one such society
within a township, the list was kept about the same. In
Stratford, for some years, there were four Congregational
societies and three, if not four, Episcopal.

A Toivn-hoiise for the accommodation of the town
meetings was built between the years 1752 and 1758; for the
town meeting of December, 1758 was held in the new town
house.

The movement began January, 1749-50. "Voted to
build a town house, and that the same shall not, any part
thereof, be used for a school house, under any pretence what-
soever, and to set the house upon the hill just south of Tan-
ner's brook, called the Smith shop hill ; the house to be 45
feet long, 32 feet wide, and ten feet between joints.

" Voted the same to be furnished with seats and chim-
ney." This they proposed to build by subscription, but they

^° Election at town meeting December 29, 1675.

"John Minor, ) n^ ^^^ki^^
■' > Constables

3n. )

Jehiel Preston,

Thomas Uffoot,

John Wells, i

Sergt. John Curtiss, V townsmen.

Henry VVakelyn, i

John Pickett, sen., J

John Minor, recorder.

Sergt. John Curtiss, town treasurer.

Thomas Favrechild, ) u ,

- ' f Haywardens.

h,\\. Knowles, )

Robert Lane, )

Benjamin Beach, )

■ fence viewers.

Edward Hinman, packer.
John Peak, Jr., marshal.
Nathaniel Parker, ) surveyors of high-
James Clark, ) ways.
Mr. Hawley, ordinary keeper.
John Pickett, Jr., sealer of weights and

measures.
James Clark, pound keeper.
John Peck, custom master.
Robert Rose, cryer.
Capt. Curtiss, Mr. Mitchell, Jehiel

Preston and John Minor to audit

the town's accounts."

A Town House. 291

also voted a tax for the same purpose, and, although they
appointed a committee to do the work, yet it was delayed.

In 1752 they appointed a committee, consisting of one
man from each society in the^town, to consult about the best
way to build the town house ; and the town meeting was held
in it in December, 1758.

Previous to this the town meeting is mentioned several
times as having been held in the school house.

A I*est-Jioiise was voted to be built in December, 1760.
The year previous to this Daniel Nichols had the small-pox
and the town voted him four pounds, if he recovered of his
distemper.

CHAPTER XII.

BEGINNING THE EIGHTEENTH
CENTURY.

REAT was the spirit of enterprise in Strat-
^g^ford when the eighteenth century was intro-
duced by the opening of the year 1701.
Sixty-one years had passed since the first
seventeen families established the plantation
as new settlers in the wilderness. At the
end of the first age, of thirty years, many of
the persons in these lamilies, and of all the
families that came before 1650, had passed
away, and only a few dwellings — perhaps
a half dozen — had been extended beyond
the limits of the village of Stratford; while
the families had reached the number of a
little over one hundred, in 1677; the pro-
prietors of the township being just one hun-
dred.

During the second age, thirty years, great progress had
been made in laying out the lands northward into the wilder-
ness preparatory to their occupancy by resident farmers ;
and quite a number of the young men had established their
homes on these farms. The monotony and loneliness of their
locations were greatly relieved by the animation of the nat-
ural scenery and the spirit of enterprise and progress in the
further settlement of the country. The woods were full of
birds and animals — quite too much so, as to wolves and bears
— and the courage and ambition of the young people were
exercised, equally, with any succeeding age.

In 1699, the proprietors or owners of the undivided land,
numbered one hundred and forty-three, and the families, about
two hundred.

First Merchants. 293

An ecclesiastical society and a church had been organ-
ized at Pequonnock, called Stratfield, which at first included
twelve or fourteen of the Stratford families, and those all
residing west of the Pequonnock river.

There may have been three or four families residing in
what is now Huntington, but it is doubtful if there were
more than two who were located at Shelton, unless there
were others in the southeastern corner of that town.

There were about a dozen families in the vicinity of
Oronoke, and as many more along Old Mill Green and on
Old Mill hill.

Such was the field of operations, the center or headquar-
ters being at Stratford village, which had become a place of
considerable mercantile business and social enterprise. The
meeting-house had been removed from the harbor and a new
one built on Watch-house Hill. Two ware-houses had been
built, one by Richard Blackleach, the other by Daniel Shelton,'
perhaps one of them on the site of the old meeting-house at
the harbor, for one was built there very early, the stone base-
ment story of which is the foundation of the barn now stand-
ing upon it. The merchandise consisted largely of grains,
beef and pork and live horses; the last for the West Indies,
the others for Boston and New York, There was no trade
in articles of wood, for in 1690 the town, by vote, forbid
the transportation of any timber for clapboards, pipe staves,
hoops, heading, rails or building lumber, from the place,
because of its scarcity.

It has been difficult to ascertain in what hands the mer-
cantile business was held previous to this time, except that,
from the first, or about 1650, until 1680, or near that time,
Joseph Hawley and Isaac Nichols, sen., had some, consider-
able, probably the leading part in such trade. Joseph Haw-
ley built vessels, here and at Derby, and also sold foreign
cloths and other mercantile goods. He was also, some of the
time, the ordinary, or tavern keeper, and in those days, and

' " May 6, 16S6. Voted and granted unto Mr. Richard Blacklach and Mr.
Daniel Shilton to build each of them a warehouse in some convenient place where
it may be judged most suitable. by the selectmen of the town and the wharfe pre-
sented them as proprietors of Stratford, for ever, free wharfage."

2Q4 History of Stratford.

many years later, not only liquors were sold, but teas, sugar,
molasses, indigo, logwood, nails of all kinds, made in Eng-
land and at home, at such places of public entertainment.
Isaac Nichols, sen., seems, from certain records, to have con-
ducted a like business, later, perhaps after Mr. Hawley re-
tired.

Alexander Bryan^ of Milford, was the great merchant
for the whole region of country, and his son Richard with
him for more than half a century. They bought and sold
land in almost, or quite, every town from New London to
New York. They furnished goods to pay the Indians for
nearly all the townships in the region. Their vessels traded,
not only at home, but in foreign ports, England, Holland and
Spain. Their bills passed in exchange, in all parts of the
country, and particularly in England. It is doubtful if there
was another merchant, out of Boston, on the American coast,
that did as large a business as Alexander Bryan from 1639
to 1670.

Isaac Nichols, sen., as seen by the records, obtained con-
siderable supplies from Alexander Bryan, and hence the in-
formation as to his mercantile business.

Samuel Blagge, from New York, Richard Blacklach,
from Guilford, and Daniel Shelton from England, came to
Stratford, as merchants, about 1686; Samuel Blagge, per-
haps, several years earlier than the other two.

The farmers of Stratford resided in the village, and went
out to their farms, from one to three miles, in the true oriental
style, to do the work of the farm. In the morning they were
seen going out with their teams, man}^ of them to the south,
to the Old Field, and the Great Neck, all of which was put
into one great field, about 1693, the fence crossing from the
rocks on Little Neck, west to mill brook, and all the land
south of it, being in the field. The Old Field, at first did not
include the Great Neck. Other of the farmers went to the
New Field, joining the village on the southwest, between it
and the swamp. Then there was a field called Nesingpaws,
on the west side of Mill brook, as called in the deeds about
1700, and after, or west of the swamp extending to Bruce's
Brook; and from this field, or Bruce's Brook to the old

Grants of Mill Privileges. 295

yellow mill, was the Far-field; then the Newpasture field
south of Old Mill Green, and Pequonnock field south of
Golden Hill. There was also a common field — not very
large — at Oronoke, besides what was called the great meadow
at that place.

Gristmills^ Sawmills, and Fullingmills.

As the families settled back into the wilderness, they
needed mills of various kinds to facilitate the work and com-
fort of life. To build a small saw mill was an enterprise of
venture, requiring much energy and considerable money, as
then money was estimated. The town owned all the mill-
sites, as well as the land around them, and therefore none of
them could be used without a grant from the town. At first,
besides granting the privilege of the mill, the town gave to
the person who should build a gristmill several acres of land,
upon condition that the party "should grind the town's
corn," for a sixteenth or twelfth or an eighth part of the
grain brought to the mill.

At this time, 1700, there had been two gristmills and two
fulling mills built, and soon after several other mills were
erected, as the following records show :

" January 26, 1702-3, the town granted liberty to Eben-
ezer Curtiss, James Lewis and Edmund Lewis, to erect a
sawmill near Misha hill."

" December 25, 1704, Benjamin Sherman, John Williams,
and John Seeley were granted liberty to erect a gristmill
upon Pequonnock river at the narrows below Essay's pond."
Upon securing this site they were to sign certain articles of
agreement with the selectmen.

"January 11, 1705-6, the town granted liberty to Mr.
Ephrain-. Stiles to set up a gristmill at Farmill river, a little
below Black brook, near the place called the Plum-trees."
At the same time the town granted full liberty to Lt. Tomlin-
son to maintain his fulling mill on Farmill river.

"February 14, 1721-2, Mr. John Edwards requested lib-
erty to " erect a fulling mill upon the river on the west side
of Ox hill," and in 1724 Mr. Edwards and Lt. Richard Hub-

2q6 History of Stratford.

bell, erected a fulling mill at the same place, then called Jack-
son's river, it being near Fairfield line.

" December 5, 1725. Upon the request of Zechariah
Beardslee, Charles Lane and Ephraim Judson, to erect a saw-
mill and make a dam for said mill at the south corner of
Acquanquedy plain on the west sprain of the Farmill river,
the town grants their request, with this proviso, that they
satisfy for all damage that their dam may cause in any par-
ticular person's land."

"December 29, 1725. Liberty was granted Captain
Josiah Curtiss and Mr. John Willcoxson, Jr., to erect a saw-
mill on the halfway river," at the north end of the town.

Ecclesiastical Progress and Prosperity.

The Rev. Israel Chauncey died at Stratford March 14,
1702-3, in the 39th year of his ministry, and the 59th year of
his age; which appears to have been an unexpected event
without forewarning, as he was not aged, or in any way en-
feebled. He had been a successful, faithful minister, and
seems to have been very acceptable in the parish, his salary
having been increased at several times, being the highest, and
standing at ;^i 12, and his yearly allowance of wood, at his
decease.

Two candidates for the supply of the pulpit were soon
secured; Mr. Nathaniel Hubbard, of the class of Harvard,
1698, and Mr. Joseph Morgan. Upon this the town came
together on May 7, 1703, and voted to buy a house "of Dan-
iel Shelton for ;^ioo cash, for the minister in Stratford," but
"after the vote was recorded, Isaac Knell, Joseph Fairchild,
Edward Hinman, Samuel Peat, sen., and Timothy Titharton,
did protest against buying Mr. Shelton's house." This is the
first intimation of trouble that the records afford, nor is there
any reason stated for the opposition.

The next proceeding, at the same meeting, was to apply
for Mr. Reed to preach, and " Nathaniel Sherman was by vote
chosen as agent for the town, forthwith with all convenient
speed to go to Hartford and endeavor, by all lawful means,
the obtaining of Mr. Reed for the work above said." Mr.

Mr. Reed's Ministry. 297

Reed was secured and preached, and the August following
the town voted him " ^40 pay in provision and £6 for fire-
wood for half a year, and Mr. Nathaniel Sherman, Sergt.
John Hawley, Mr, Jeremiah Judson, were appointed a com-
mittee to " take care of transporting Mr. Reed's family from
Hartford, and providing a suitable habitation for him." The
next February — 8, 1703-4 — on a proposition for settling a
minister, Mr. Reed received 96 votes; Mr. Hubbard, 18; and
Mr. Morgan, 15.

Mr. Reed continued to preach regularly until November
14, 1704, when he received 70 votes, and there were " 14
votes to the contrary," On the 24th of April, 1705, "there
being some persons dissatisfied with the former vote,"
another was taken, and Mr. Reed received ^"j, for settlement,
there being "43 otherwise," and 32 not voting. The last
vote taken to settle him was on September 25, 1706, in which
the whole number of votes was much smaller, he having 63
votes.

Very soon, following this last vote, perhaps before, some
talk was indulged in by the public, which Mr. Reed resented
and demanded inquiry, and hence the following action by the
town :

" November 20, 1706. Whereas, the Revd. Elders in
their advice to the town of Stratford, recommended to take
all suitable care to purge and vindicate Mr. Reed from such
scurrilous and abusive reflections (if any be) that such senti-
ments may reasonably be supposed to being upon him; and
Mr. Reed in order thereto, having laid before the town his
request that the town would be pleased to call a Council of
Elders to hear what shall be proper to lay before them in
order for a clearing of his name from those abusive reflec-
tions that he is apprehensive have been put upon him."

In harmony with this request choice was made of the
" Revds. Mr. Andrews, Mr. Pierpont, Mr. Webb and Mr.
Chauncey, by the town, to be a committee for that end ;" and
a day of fasting and prayer was appointed.

No indication as to what was said offensive to Mr. Reed
or to his parish, has been found, except the intimation that he
had made overtures to join the Episcopal Church ; but what-

298 History of Stratford.

ever it was, it is certain that he declared the matter to be
" scurrilous and abusive reflections."

It has been represented, also, that Mr, Reed was unkindly
and almost uncivilly treated by his parish, in an effort to
deprive him of his salary ; and that they were countenanced
in it by the neighboring ministers. This is a wholly gratui-
tous reflection, since his salary was continued regularly by
town vote at one hundred pounds a year — a salary nearly equal
to that of the preceding minister, and also to that of Mr.
Cutler, who followed him, and this salary was as regularly
paid, probably, as that of any minister in the Colony ; as
exhibited, in the records in the book of town acts for those cur-
rent years of his service.^ Mr. Reed regularly resigned his
ministerial relations to the town on the 27th of March, 1707^
and a full settlement was made with him.

Following Mr, Reed, Mr, Francis Goodhue was a candi-
date, and on July 18, 1707, he had 41 votes for settlement,
with quite a number of persons present not voting. The
meeting was adjourned one week when he had 42 votes, out
83 cast, and the town voted to allow him one hundred pounds
a year while he should preach here ; but he continued only a
short time and Mr. James Hale preached for a time in the
latter part of the year 1707.

The next candidate for settlement seems to have been Mr.
Azariah Mather who, August 24, 1708, had a vote favorable

■* "April I, 1708. Then upon the adjustment of accounts with Mr. Reed, wee
find as foUoweth :

" In ye year 1704, ye rate fell short of je 100"'*. Mr. Samuel

Hawley collector, ..... /'00-17-91

" In ye year 1705, ye rate fell short of the ioo"'s_ sundry per-
sons being non-solvent, ..... 1-15-01

"In ye year 1706 ye rate fell short of ye 100"", several per-
sons being non-solvent, allowed, . . . 2-00-00

4-12-2

" In 1702, due to Mr. Reed to a quarter of 3'e year 25"", agreed.

"Of which sums remains due from ye collector to Mr. Reed, 14-15-10

"Francis GrifBn, Dr., upon arrears of his rate 1700 yet to

see pay'd to Mr. Reed, . . ;^3-oo-oi>^

" Richard Nicolls, Dr. upon his arrears of his rate 1706, y^i

to see pay'd to Mr. Reed, . . 7-12-6^."

Mr. Cutler s Settlement. 299

" not one vote against or for any other person, but the vote
was so small that nothing was done further until January fol-
lowing, when he had 55 votes in favor, and 38 for others.
The next June they voted to seek for a stranger, and ap-
pointed seven prominent men to obtain one ; the result being
that, on September 16, 1709, action of the town was taken
" for the continuance of Mr. Cutler amongst us in the work
of the ministry in order for a settlement, of 103 in favor and
none against;" and he was offered £'^0, yearly salary, which
was less than they had paid, during several years previous,
but it was afterwards raised.

They next proposed a settlement, and September 30,
1709, "voted to give Mr. Cutler a home lot of one or two
acres, to build a house on it of forty-two feet in length and
twenty in breadth, a girt house, two story high with a suita-
ble porch, every way well finished, and one hundred acres of
land in the six-mile division, to be his own, his heirs, execu-
tors forever, provided he settle with us and continue in the
work of the ministry, and to give him the use of eight acres
pasture and four or five of meadow, and after two years to
pay him yearly ^^140 country pay as salary. This amount
was afterwards changed to ^^"93-06-8, current mone3% instead
of " produce at fixed prices." " All, provided his disciplin-
ing be agreeable with the way of the Colony or country at
present or future."

During these years of progress from 1680, the meeting
house, from which the old bell rang out a cheerful sound
every day at nine o'clock in the evening,^ became crowded,
and on January 22, 1700-1, the town voted that there should
be a gallery built in the meeting house, and a committee was
appointed to proceed with the work, which they did, for the
remaining expense of it was ordered paid the next January.
This was an end gallery, for in 1715 "two side galleries "
were built " at the charge of the town,"' and on March 2,

* "Dec. 29, 1691. The present townsmen by vote were impowered to hire
some suitable person or persons to sweep the meeting house and ring the bell on
all public days and at nine of the clock every evening.

* "January, 1715-16. The committee of the Meetinghouse gallery then agreed
and bargained with Josiah Hubbell and Israel Burritt to build the flank galleries

300 History of Stratford.

1718, they "voted that the seats of each gallery shall be
seated, the west side gallery with married men, the east gal-
lery with married women, and antiant bachelors and antiant
maides the second seats."

In May, 1713, the town voted liberty to Doctor Laboree
to "erect and build a pew on the south side of the west door
of the meeting house at his own expense." A few years
previous to this, Richard Blackleach had made a pew for his
family in this house, and these probably were all the pews
then in the house ; the other seats were high backed slips
like other meeting houses at that day.

In 171 5, "liberty was granted to the farmers to erect
suitable shelter for their horses on all public days at some
convenient place, with the advice of the selectmen."

The Rev. Timothy Cutler had preached in Stratford just
ten years, when the trustees of Yale- College invited him to
become Rector of that institution, and Stratford reluctantly
consented to the change. The town, in response to the
desire of the trustees, communicated to it, July 31, 1719, ap-
pointed a committee to hear the propositions which might be
made, and adjourned to a specified day, to hear the report ;
which was communicated at the time and action taken :

"At "a town meeting in Stratford, September 7, 1719,
several proposals presented by the Rev. Trustees Respecting
Mr. Cutler's Remove from us to the Great work of a Rector
of Yale College being laid before the town for further
thought and consideration, and the town seriously cpnsider-
ing thereof did unanimously signify their great grief and
sorrow Respecting Mr. Cutler's Remove from us who under
God hath been the happy instrument of uniting us in love
and peace after so many years of contention. However, if
the Rev"^ Mr. Cutler and Trustees are fully satisfied that Mr.
Cutler hath a warrantable Call of God to Remove from us,
we desire passively to submit to Divine providence.

"And as to the proposals made by the Rev'^ Trustees,
the town for peace and to maintain their good affections to

of the meeting house — both the joiner's and the carpenter's work to be done well
according to rule, and finish the said gallery by the first of June next, and for their
labor the committee promises to pay them thirt3--three pounds in money."

Mr. Cutler s Dismission.

301

Mr. Cutler Do allow to him the hundred acres of woodland
to be his own according to his desire ; the said Mr. Cutler
returning the house and home lott which he received of the
town, to the town again in the capacity it now is, with all
betterments, fences, &c. — always provided that the Rev.
Trustees or General Court allow to the town of Stratford
one hundred pounds money for and towards the charge of
settling another minister among us.

Test, Jos. CURTISS, Town Clerk."

Mr. Cutler went to Yale College, but there was much
trouble in settling money matters between him and the town
of Stratford, for one or two years afterward.

The trouble anticipated by a town vote in settling an-
other minister, when they consented to allow Mr. Cutler to
remove, was more than realized. They soon found a candi-
date, Mr. Samuel Russell, and took a vote on his settlement,
October i, 1719, but the numbers present being small, the
matter was deferred, although there were no votes against
him. The next March — 1720 — the vote stood 83 for him and
41 against and 8 scattering. In the April following a council
was called for advice, and the next month the matter went to
the General Court, who advised a delegated council from all
the ministerial assemblies of the State, if Stratford would pay
the expense. This created much greater excitement and
difficulty, and many names were entered on the records as
protesting against making any expense in that way. Trouble
increased during two years, Mr. Russell continuing to preach,
until quite a number of inhabitants recorded their names as
refusing to pay to his support, November 2, 1721, when it
was concluded to seek another candidate.

The next February they held a day of fasting and prayer
in view of their trouble in calling a minister, and they soon
after found a preacher upon whom they could fully unite, as
seen by the town record :

"April 16, 1722. Whereas, the society at a lawful meet-
ing March i, 1721-2, by a unanimous vote called Mr. Heze-
kiah Gold to the work of the ministry in Stratford in order
for a settlement among us, and having ever since sat under
his ministry with great satisfaction and delight; and for his

302 History of Stratford.

incouragement to settle with us in the work of the ministry,
it was this day voted and granted to allow him 130 pounds
per annum as his yearly salary in money so long as the pub-
lic good requires his labors among us. And for his settlement
to give him the town house [probably the one built for Mr.
Cutler] and home lot of one acre and a half to be his own
forever, provided he settles with us and continue with us in
the work till death; also the barn and half the land adjoining
to the home lot."

To this he made the following reply :

" To ye old Society and Church of Christ in Stratford,
to whom Grace and Peace be multiplied from God our father
and from our Lord Jesus Christ. Dearly beloved, these may
inform you of my greatful and thankful acceptance of your
generous and honorable proposals for my incouragement in
ye great work of ye ministry among you in which I purpose
to continue as God in his providence shall permit, your faith-
ful servant in Christ during life. Hez. Gold."

Stratford April 23, 1722.

May 8, 1722. The Society appointed the tirst Wednesday
in June next to be the day for the ordination of Mr. Gold.

Jan. 6, 1723-4. Mr. Gold's request of the town, " liberty
to erect a pew at some convenient place in the meeting house
for his family " was granted. A few years later his salary
was fixed at one hundred and fifty pounds a year and so con-
tinued many years, but when the inflation of State bills went
on a few years, his salary — about 1750 — was considerably
over two hundred pounds old tenor.

It is during the transactions for securing and settling
Mr. Gold, that the distinction between the acts of the town
and the ecclesiastical society, are first noticed on the records.
The General Court in 1717 passed an act defining the powers
and jurisdiction of such a society;' and in 1723 added the liq-
erty for each society in every town to have its own clerk.

'' An Act for the better Ordering and Regulating Parishes or Societies, and for their

Supporting the Ministry and Schools there.

That the settled and approved inhabitants in each respective parish or society
within this Colony, shall annually meet together in December, at some time and
place, according to the notice thereof to be given them at least five days before

Dr. Outers Ministry. 303

During Mr. Cutler's pastorate, in 1717, when harmony
and prosperity prevailed throughout the township, the move-
ment began, which resulted in the organization of the parish
or society of Ripton, of which a careful and full account will
be given further on in this book in the history of the town of
Huntington.

Timothy Cutler^ J). I),, son of Major John Cutler, of
Charlestown, Massachusetts, was born June i, 1684, and was
graduated at Harvard College in 1701. A call was extended
to him by the Stratford Church September 16, 1709, and near
or in the following December he was ordained pastor of this
Church and congregation.

He served the parish acceptably ten years, but without
any marked success, except as a pleasing and entertaining
preacher. He was held in high esteem by the parish, was
" reputed as a man of profound and general learning," but his
letter of resignation, herewith printed, if such it may' be

such meeting, by the committee for ordering the affairs of the societ}-, or for want
of such committee, by the clerk of the same. And the said inhabitants thus met
and convened together are hereby fully impowered by their major vote, to choose
a clerk for their society, and three or more discreet, able inhabitants to be a com-
mittee to order the affairs of the society for the year ensuing. And also the said
inhabitants assembled as above, or the major part of them, shall have power to
grant and levy such rates and taxes on the inhabitants for the advancing such sum
or sums of money for the support of the ministry and school there, as the law
directs, and to appoint a collector or collectors for gathering thereof, who are
hereby ordered and impowered to proceed in collecting the same, according to the
direction of the law to collectors chosen for gathering the town and minister's
rates. And in case the collector or collectors shall not perform the trust hereby
committed to him or them, he or they shall be accountable for such arrearages by
him or them neglected to be gathered, to the committee of such society, who are
impowered to demand or distrain for the same, according to the direction of said
law.

To this was added, in October, 1723, "That where there are more societies
than one in any town in this governmnent, every such society are enabled, and
they hereby have full power, to choose their own clerk." Col. Records, vi. 33.

' Mr. Cutler's resignation was as follows, dated September 14, 1719:
" Brethren and Friends :

I hope I have, with seriousness and solemnity considered the invitation made
to me for a removal from you to the Collegiate School at New Haven, and can
look upon it as nothing less than a call of providence which I am obliged to obey.

I do, therefore, by these lines, give you this signification, giving you my hearty

304 History of Stratford.

called, does not sustain the reputation thus given him. A
brief letter of this description, in which the pronoun of the
first person nominative occurs nine times, and six times in the
possessive, is doubtless a literary production, but not of a
very highly cultivated style; and, instead of resigning his
office, he discharges the parish from further service to him,
in these words, " and discharging you from the date of this
letter forever."

In the summer of 1719 he accepted the presidency of
Yale College, which office he discharged acceptably three
years, when, professing a preference for the Church of Eng-
land and renouncing his connection with the churches of the
Colony, he, upon request, resigned the presidency of the Col-
lege ; went to England in 1723, where he was ordained priest
and honored with the title of D. D., by Oxford University ;
returned to America and became pastor of Christ Church
in Boston. He died in that city in 1765, aged 82 years.

Mev, He^ekiah Gold, son of Hon. Nathan Gold, Jr., of
Fairfield, was born in 1794; graduated at Harvard College in
1719, and was ordained pastor of the Stratford Church on the
first Wednesday in June, 1722. Within the first year of his
ministry his labors were honored by the accession of sixty
persons to membership of his Church ; and from that time
forward a good degree of prosperity attended his ministra-

thanks for all that respect and kindness I have found with you and praying God abun-
dantly to reward you for it — and discharging you from the date of this letter for-
ever— and praying you to apply yourselves with all convenient speed to the set-
tling of another minister with you.

I intend, if it be not unacceptable to you, to visit you and take my farewell of
you as soon as I can conveniently in some Lord's day after my return from Boston,
where I am now going, if it please God. V/hen I am bodily absent from you my
affections shall persevere towards you and my hearty desires and prayers shall be
to God for you, that he would preserve you in his favour and in peace among
yourselves; direct your endeavours for the settlement of another to break the
bread of life with you and make your way prosperous, and abundantly make up
my removal from you by his gifts and his painful and successful endeavours for
the good of your souls and your children after you. Thus, I leave you to the care
of the Great Shepherd of the sheep always remaining an earnest well-wisher to
your souls and all your concerns.

Timothy Cutler."

M7'. Gold's Ministry. 305

tions. From 173 1 to 1746, 260 persons became members of
his church ; amonof whom were the Rev. Nathan Birdseye,
who died in 1818, in his 104th year, and David Wooster, after-
wards General in the army of the Revolution.

Mr. Gold was dismissed from the pastorate of the Strat-
ford parish July 3, 1752, and died in 1761.'

Mr. Gold was placed in unusual circumstances in his
ministry from 1740, to his dismission. From the beginning of
his labors his zeal and spirit was in harmony with the gospel idea
of saving sinners as well as to teach the church, and hence
many were converted and added to the church. When in
1735 an unusual religious interest was developed under the
Rev. Jonathan Edwards, at Northampton, Mass., it was in
harmony with Mr. Gold's labors as much, probably, as those
of any minister in Connecticut ; and it was the same when the
Rev. George Whitefield of England came.

The Rev. Benjamin L. Swan made the following notes
concerning the Rev. George Whitefield's visit to Stratford.

" Mr. Whitefield preached here Monda}^ afternoon Octo-
ber 27, 1740, on his way from New Haven, where he preached
on Sunday the 26th, and on the three days preceding. He
records an interview at New Haven with the Rev. Jedediah
Mills of Ripton parish in Stratford, whom he calls a ' dear
man of God. My soul was much united to him.'

" That Mr. Gold, then pastor in Stratford, was cordially
interested in the work of grace attending Mr. VVhitefield's
preaching, is evident from his signature to the testimony of
of the Fairfield County ministers in favor of the revival, given
in October, 1743. Of the eleven signers of that paper, there
were of ministers in Stratford, Mr. Cook, of Stratfield, Mr.
Gold of Stratford, and Mr. Mills of Ripton.

" The sermon by Mr. Whitefield was heard by Mrs.
Ann, wife of John Brooks, grand-daughter of post-master
Daniel Brooks, who, herself, narrated the matter to Miss
Polly Tomlinson, who related it to me in 1859, and she was
so much interested that, with her infant in her arms, she went
to Fairfield to hear him again the same day.

Manual of the Stratford Congregational Church 9.

2o6 History of Stratford.

" Mrs. Brooks was probably a subject of grace on that
occasion, for in the January following, she united with the
church.

" Mr. Whitefield certainly had access to the Church, but
a tradition preserved by Mrs. Victory Wetmore — daughter-
in-law of the Rev. Izrahiah Wetmore, and given me by her in
1859, represents a Mrs. Burritt who lived on the wood end
road below Main street, as being in the yard of her dwelling,
farther down, than any house now stands, and a mile nearly
from the Meeting House Hill, where she distinctly heard Mr.
Whitfield name his text from Zechariah ix. 12 : ' Turn ye to
the stronghold ye prisoners of hope ;' and repeated it to her
husband on his return home. Hence, it is probable that this
sermon was delivered in the open air.

" Mr. Whitefield, after preaching, was the guest of Mr.
Gold, who lived on the spot now occupied by Captain Ster-
ling's house.

" Dr. Johnson is said to have called on Mr. Whitefield
here, and desired some account of his principles, but he
declined any discussion, saying he had already announced his
principles in his sermon, and speedily departed for Fairfield.

" Mrs. Wetmore relates that a daughter of Mr. Jeremiah
Green, who lived on Old Mill road, just beyond the railroad
crossing, heard Whitfield preach, was convicted, and in the
overwhelming excitement of her mind, swooned and fell into
a sort of trance, or insensible state, which lasted one or two
days."

In the winter following, Mr. Gold's settlement in Strat-
ford a movement commenced, which resulted in securing a
parsonage for the first society, for the use of the minister.
The deed for the property so purchased was dated February
8, 1722-3, and was in consideration of ^^"67. The money was
secured by voluntary subscription, the largest amount paid
by one person being £\. los., there being 123 subscribers to
the fund.*

^ " Stratford, November, 1722. We, the subscribers hereunto being desirous
to propagate the gospel by the Presbj-terian ministry among us ; and in order there-
unto, being sensible that it may be of great service to purchase a parsonage lot,
and sequester it forever to remain a parsonage lot for the use of a Presbyterian

Mr. Gold's Ministry. 307

A New lleeting house was built during Mr. Gold's
ministry according to the following directions of the society :

"Second Monday, February, 1742-3. Voted that it was
necessary to build a meeting house for said society for the
carrying on the public worship, by more than two-thirds of
voters present.

" Voted, that Captain Theophilus Nichols, Mr. Robert
Walker, Jr., Sergeant Daniel Porter, make application to the
General Assembly in May next to appoint a committee to
affix a place where the said society shall erect their meeting
house."

" February 21, 1742-3. Voted that the meeting house
shall be sixty feet in length, forty feet in width, and the posts
twenty-six feet in length.

" Voted that the society will build a steeple, 130 feet
high.

"June 27, 1743. Voted that Capt. David Judson, Lt.
John Wilcockson and Sergt. Daniel Porter shall be the com-
mittee for building and furnishing the meeting-house on the
place appointed by said society by the General Assembly in
May last."

The location of this house was a few rods west of the old
one, on the public green, where the academy afterwards
stood, and was the one burned by lightning in 1785.

3Ir, Gold's J>'is^>tiS8fOH was a serious matter, although
it had been sought by some parties in the church and par-
ish several years.

Mrs. Nancy Wells, widow of John Wells, and previously
of Doctor Ezra Curtis, was the daughter of Samuel Uffbrd,
and born in 1772. She was living in 1862, in her 89th year,
and gave to the Rev. B. L. Swan some ministerial reminis-
cences. "She was a grand-daughter of the Rev. HezekiahGold,
but was born under Rev. Izrahiah Wetmore's ministry and
baptized by him. She said Mr. Gold's first wife was a Rug-
gles, of Guilford, who died, and Mr. Gold married the widow

ministry in Stratford for the benefit of succeeding generations ; do freely give the
particular sums prefixed to our names for the purchasing of Captain David Bos-
tick's lot, called Harvey's lot, for the use aforesaid, and for no other."

3oS History of Stratford.

of John Prynn, who came from the West Indies to Stratford,
where he resided some years [and died November 23, 1751,
^. 51]. He brought some negroes with him and practiced
the breeding of them for sale.

" He and his wife were Episcopal Church people of ver}'
high pretentions.

" After Mr. Gold married the widow Prynn, he was com-
pelled to wait on her to the door of the Episcopal Church ;
and after his own service in the Congregational Church was
out to return thither and receive her at the door, into his car-
riage again.

" This marriage and her conduct offended many in Mr.
Gold's church — among them Colonel Robert Walker — a man
who came to Stratford as a weaver, but married Rebecca
Lewis of Old Mill Green, who had property, and he soon
rose to be Justice of the Peace, then Judge of the County
Court, and became an influential man.

" Through his instrumentality Mr. Gold was dismissed
from the service of his church, and Mr. Wetmore became
pastor. He was a young man, and married Colonel Walker's
daughter. Mrs. Wells' remembrance of Mr. Wetmore was
very distinct. He was very tall, with colorless, inexpressive
e3'es, red and close curling hair — the homeliest man, she said,
she ever saw. He was the tallest man, except one, in the
place.

" Mrs. Wells remembered well when wooden trenchers
and wooden tea-cups and saucers were used.

" A Miss Tomlinson living at the same time with Mrs.
Nancy Wells, said that the marriage of Mr. Gold, and the
aversion of a party to his evangelical preaching — in which
party Colonel Walker was prominent, were, together, the
occasion of his being dismissed. She said, also, that this dis-
mission caused the elderly Mr. Hezekiah DeForest, and
others, to remove from Stratford to Huntington, New Haven,
and other places."

There is an error in the above statement concerning the
Walker family. Hon. Robert Walker, whose daughter Mr.
Wetmore married, was born in Stratford, in 1705, and was not
a weaver. It was his great uncle, Jacob Walker, brother of

The Great Revival. -09

the Rev. Zechariah, who married the widow Elizabeth Blake-
man and who may have been a weaver, but became a large
farmer in Stratford.

The excitement in Stratford, as well as throughout New
England, was very great, for several years following Mr.
Whitfield's preaching. That preaching was very severe as to
true conversion. Those persons, members of any and all
churches, who had not experienced definite and remarkable
exercises at the time of their professed conversion were rep-
resented as never having been converted, and as having no
assurance of heaven. Mr. Gold, who had had an unusual
revival for those days, soon after his settlement here, the
spirit of which still continued, received Mr. Whitfield as a
brother minister, and favored the public interest taken in the
revival of religious interests in New England in 1741, 2 and
3. This season of unusual religious interest has since been
termed " The Great Awakening." Many persons became
greatly interested in religion in the specific form of a wonder-
ful, or miraculous conversion, claiming that it was directly
accomplished by the invisible power of God ; and that this
power was exerted upon those only who were the elect.
Hence, in this movement, there was the revival of the Cal-
vinistic doctrines. There grew out of it, also, a strong
sentiment against the union of church and state as it then
existed in New England ; and hence there were two parties
in the Congregational Churches, which resulted a few years
later in the organization of what were called New Light
Churches, but these churches called themselves Strict Con-
gregational Churches.

There was another influence which affected Mr. Gold's
parish very seriously. The Rev. Richardson Miner, settled
pastor at Unity (now Trumbull), was a very successful phy-
sician as well as pastor, and practiced throughout Stratford,
and largely in Stratford village, and hence attained a large
popular influence. He, it is said, and with corroborating evi-
dences, held more to the old ways of religious life than Mr.
Gold, and hence, a movement sprang up about 1742 and 3, to
have Mr. Gold dismissed and Mr. Miner called to Stratford;
but when, in 1744, Mr. Miner joined the Episcopal Church,
21

2IO History of Stratford.

there was great disappointment and great excitement in this
region of country, and quite a number of influential families
withdrew from the Congregational communion and united
with the Episcopal Church. The same was true in several
adjoining parishes.

In the parish of Stratfield, although there was an Epis-
copal Church at Fairfield, some persons in 1751, under the
New Light teachings, objecting to the levying of taxes to
support the gospel, withdrew and organized a Baptist Church
at Stratfield.

Some further notice of Mr. Gold's controversy with the
Rev. Samuel Johnson, D.D., may be found in the next chapter
of this book, in the biographical sketch of Dr. Johnson.

Presbyterians in Stratford.

As far as has been ascertained by careful search, Presby-
terians have existed in Stratford only in the name as applied
to Congregationalists, after the establishment of the Saybrook
platform of ecclesiastical government.

When in October, 1666, the General Court of the Colony
ordered all the ministers to meet in convention to discuss and
settle a number of ecclesiastical matters, it gave the name
ynod to that meeting, but this term was so unwelcome, as
being a Presbyterian name, that the Court changed it the
next May, and styled the meeting " an assembly of the min-
isters of this Colony."

The order of the Court in May, 1708, in decreeing the
delegated convention at Saybrook to remedy " the defects of
the discipline of the churches of this government," used no
terms that were Presbyterian or that indicated that form of
government;'' nor did the convention itself, except in the title

'' "May, 1708. This Assembly, from their own observation and from the complaint
of many others, being made sensible of the defects of the disciplme of the churches
of this government, arising from the want of more explicit asserting the rules given
for that end in the holy scriptures, from which would rise a firm establishment
amongst us, a good and regular issue in cases subject to ecclesiastical discipline,
glory to Christ our head, and edification to his members, haih seen fit to ordain
and require, and it is by authority of the same ordained and required, that the

The Saybrook Platform.

311

given to the Articles of Discipline, in which it said the minis-
ters were " formerly called Presbyterian and Congrega-
tional."

In 1679, the Governor of the Colony and his Assistants,
in answer to inquiries made by the King's Council Chamber
as to what persuasion in religious matters is most prevalent,"
said : " Our people in this Colony are, some strict Congrega-
tional men, others more large Congregational men, and some
moderate Presbyterians; and take the Congregational men of
both sorts they are the greatest part of the people in the
Colony."

Therefore, there were, probably, at that and up to 1708,
a few "Moderate Presbyterians" in the Colony of Connec-
ticut.

The result of these conventions was the formation and
adoption of the Saybrook platform, or system of church gov-
ernment.

Upon the adoption of the Saybrook platform in 1708 it
became the custom to call these churches Presbyterian, which
term grew more and more acceptable until the New Light
movement began in 1741, when the name became objection-
able ; quite a number of churches refusing to be known as
Presbyterian.

The Consociations established by the Saybrook Plat-
form— being composed of ministers and laymen — and the
authority which they were intended to exercise, were the
only principles which conformed to the government of the
Presbyterian Church. The Halfway Covenant, which was

ministers of the churches in the several counties of this government shall meet
together at their respective countie towns, with such messengers as the churches to
which they belong shall see cause to send with them, on the last Monday in June
next, there to consider and agree upon those methods and rules for the manage-
ment of ecclesiastical discipline, vvhiuh b}' them shall be judged agreeable and
conformable to the word of God, and shall, at the same meeting, appoint two or
more of their number to be their delegates, who shall all meet together at Say-
brook, at the next Commencement to be held there, where they shall compare the
results of the ministers of the several counties, and out of and from them to draw
a form of ecclesiastical discipline, which by two or more persons delegated by
them shall be offered to this Court at their sessions at New Haven in October
next, to be considered of and confirmed by them, and that the expenses of the
above mentioned meetings be defrayed out of the public treasury of this Colonie."

312

History of Stratford.

only confirmed, not instituted by that Platform, had nothing
Presbyterian in it, but was clearly in harmony with the
usages of the Episcopal Church, in as much as it opened the
way for the baptism of all children, by the parents becoming
sponsors for their own children, in the form denominated
owning the covenant.

The specific object of the Saybrook convention was to
establish a more thorough system of ecclesiastical govern-
ment; or in the words of the call for that meeting, to remedy
" the defects of the discipline of the churches of this govern-
ment."

When the Consociations were organized under it, in the
western part of the State, at least, this matter was carefully
confirmed and authorized, so far as those bodies could do it.*
This was the action taken by the ministers of Fairfield County,
and the form of this Consociation government was strongly
Presbyterian.*

^"Sigillum 1 At a Consociation or meeting of the Elders and Messengers
Consocialionis \ of the County of Fairfield at Stratfield March i6, 1708-g.

Fairfieldensis. I The Revd. Mr. John Davenport chosen Moderator.

Present from y''
Chh. of Fairfield
The Rev' Mr. Joseph Webb

Messenge'^
Deacon John Thomson
Mr. Samuel Cobbet.

From y" Chh. of Stratford.

Messenge''''.
Joseph Curtiss Esqr.
Mr. Samuel Sherman.

From y'' Chh. of Stratfield. ""
The Revd. Mr. Charles
Cauncey

Messenger.
Lieut. James Bennet.

From y« Chh. of Stamford
The Revd. Mr. Jno. Davenport.

Messengers.
Deacon Sam" Hoit
Mr. Jos. Bishop.

The Revd. Mr. Charles Chauncey Scribe.
After Solemn Seeking of God for divine guid-
I ance, direction and blessing the Councill convened.
[ The Acts of y" Councill at Saybrook, September
9, 1708 were read the first time as also y'' general
J Assembly's approbation and sanction thereof, Oc-
tober 1708.

Voted in Council to adjourn till 8 of y' clock in y"*
morning.

The Consociation being met according to adjourn-
ment, after prayer made it was agreed

Imps. That all the Chhs. in y« County of Fairfield
be one Consociation.

2. That y^ Pastors met in our Consociation have
power with y" Consent of the Messengers of our
Chhs. chosen and attending. Authoritatively Judi-
cially and Decisively to determine ecclesiastically
affairs brot to their Cognizance according to the
Word of God and that our Pastors with the
concurrence and consent of the Messengers of
our Chhes. to be chosen and that shall attend
upon all future occasions, have like Authorita-
tive, Judicial and Decisive power of Determin-
ation of affairs ecclesiasticall, and that in further

TJie Fairfield Consociation.

313

From y^ Chh. of Danbur)'.
The Rev' Mr. Seth Shove.

Messengers.
Lieut. James Beebee
Mr, James Benedict.

and fuller meetings of two Consociations together
compliant with the conclusions of y" sd Counciil at
Saybrook, there is the like Authoritative, Judicial!
and Decisive power of Determination of Ecclesias-
tical affairs according to y« word of God.
3. That by Elder or Elders of a particular Chh in
From y" Chh. of Norw.Tlk. ] said Saybrook conclusions mentioned in

The ReV Mr. Stephen Buckingham, j Paragraph y' first is understood only in y"

Messenger. f teaching Elder or teaching Elders.

Deacon Zerubbabel Hoit. j 4. That in y« 6"' Paragraph of sd Con-

clusions we do not hold ourselves obliged

From y" Chh. of Woodbury.
The Revd. Mr. Anthony Stoddard.

in our practice to use y" phrase of y° sentence
of Non Communion but in y^ stead thereof
Messengers. |- to use y« phrase of y" sentence of Excom-

Deacon John Sherman, munication which may in our judgment be

Deacon Matthew Mitchell. J formally applied in y« Cases expressed in

said Paragraph.
The Counciil adjourned till half an hour past two oclock in y*' afternoon.

5. That to 3'^ orderly begining of a case before a Counciil of our Chhe=. y"*
aggrieved member shall make application unto y** moderator of the Counciil or
Consociation for y'' time being or in case of y** moderator's death to v* free Sen"^
Pastor of y^ Consociation who upon his desire shall receive attested copies of y®
Chhs. proceedings with y'= aggrieved member from their minister and y« sd. Mod-
erator with the two free senr. Pastors of y^ Circuit or in y* Case premised of y*
death of y^ Moderator y^ sd 2 senr. pastors of y" circuit being satisfied there is
sufficient cause shall warn y" convening of the Consociation.

6. That a Cop}- of a Warning to appear before y* Counciil the time an J place
being notified being read in the hearing or left in y" house of the ordinary abode of
a scandalous member or witness concerning the case depending before two mem-
bers of the designation of the Scribe for y"' time being and signed by the sd Scribe
be adjudged a regular notification.

7. That a copy of a Warning to appear before y® Pastor or Chh. y** place and
time notified being read in y" hearing or left in the ordinary abode of an oflTending
member or witness needfull in the case before two members appointed by the
pastor and signed by him shall be a fair notification y* neglect whereof unless
upon sufficient reason shall be reputed a scandalous contempt in our respective
Chhes

8. That all persons that are known to be Baptized shall in y" places where
they dwell be subject to y" Censures of admonition and excommunication in case
of scandall committed and obstinately persisted in.

9. That the Moderator and Scribe now chosen be accounted to stand in y«
same respective capacities for y" time being untill a new regular choice be made,
and so for the future.

10. That y« Judgment of y" Consociation or Counciil be executed by any
Pastor appointed thereto by y" Counciil when y* Pastor that hath already dealt in
y* case hath not a freedome of Conscience to execute y" same.

The above Acts and Conclusions of the present Consociation unanimously

Voted March 17, 1708-9.

Signed Charles Chauncey, Scribe.

The above and foregoing is a true Copy of the Originall Compared.

pr. Samuel Cooke."

CHAPTER XIII.

THE EIGHTEENTH CENTURY CON-
TINUED.

ISTORY in church matters for many years
in Connecticut, is very largely the history of
^^ the people, socially and politically. There
is no nation in which religion had a larger
part in its formation than the American
nation of the United States, and the ecclesi-
astical form in which this religious influence
and teaching were prominently and success-
fully propagated for nearly one hundred
years, was Congregational. VV^hether right
or wrong, better or worse, or whatever the
final result, this is historical fact, so widely
recorded as to be beyond the possibility of
change.

It is, therefore, proper, in the further
delineations of history, to recognize the religious element, in
its movings and effect, in such a degree as to show its force
in the formation of the national life and character. In local
history especially is this true, for in it is seen more directly
the democratic elements of a free people.

Some notice of the churches in Connecticut, and espe-
cially as developed in Stratford, under the name of Congrega-
tional and Presbyterian has been given, as constituting largely
the settlement and organization of the place.

The second denomination recognized by law and largely
by the people of the state, was the Protestant Episcopal, at
that day denominated the Church of England, and the place
of its first organization in this State was Stratford.

Ecclesiastical Relations. 315

The Episcopal CJmrch in Stratford.

Stratford was settled by persons who had been commu-
nicants in the Church of England to the time of their sailing
for America. The Rev. Adam Blakeman had been regularly
ordained in that church, and had served in it as priest for
several years under the Bishop, but had been silenced for
non-conformity. He and his associates dissented from sev-
eral requirements of the Bishop ; not from the doctrines or
existing ritual of the Church ;' and as regular members of that
church received their certificates from the minister of the
parish where they had resided and " attestations from the
Justice of the Peace," according to the order of the govern-
ment, upon which they were allowed to sail as emigrants to
America.

They came to America with no other name than dissent-
ing members of the Church of England, and as such were
organized into a local body and called the " Church of Christ
in Stratford."

It is not a supposable thing that these persons, although
placed in church organization, without the approbation of a
Bishop, could at once forget, or wholly forsake the religious
training received, or their affection for the church and its
usages, from which they were separated. Hence, in 1666,
when some questions of church discipline arose there were
found those who desired to maintain and be governed by
rules which had been familiar to them in England.

The eight persons who were the minority in the division
which finally went to Woodbury, were all born in England,
with only one exception, if any, and four of them— Richard
Butler, Henry Wakelyn, Samuel Sherman and Daniel Tith-
arton, had been, probably, communicants in the Church of
England before coming to this country. They desired, when
received under the Halfway Covenant, to be examined

' Those who fled from England to this country were compelled to do so or ob-
serve certain rites and ceremonies of the English Church, which they believed un-
scriptural, and therefore wrong. They objected to the cap and surplice, the ring
in marriage, the cross in baptism, ihe rite of confirmation, kneeling at the Lord's
supper, etc." — New Haven Historical Society Papers, iii. 307.

3i6 History of Stratford.

alone by the minister — or minister and elder — and to be al-
lowed to partake of the Lord's Supper, and their children,
when baptized, to be members of the church in the sense
entertained then in the English Church. Hence, this church
at Woodbury did admit the halfway covenant members to the
communion for many years after its organization.

Nor is it to be supposed that all kindl}' remembrances and
feelings of attachment for the Episcopal Church had died
out in Stratford at the year 1700, while their numbers had
been increased frequently by emigrants from the Church of
England, yet it is doubtful if before 1706 there were any fam-
ilies in Stratford who stood aloof from the Congregational
Church, claiming to be adherents of the Episcopal Church.
This is a conclusion, after careful examination, of every fam-
ily name, as to births, baptisms, civil and social relations and
owners of property, to that date. It has been claimed that
Daniel Shelton was an Episcopalian from 1687, onward, but if
so, he was, as may hereafter be seen, a very good " pillar " in
the Congregational Society as late as 1717, for his name was
the first on the petition in that year for society privileges in
Ripton for the Congregational Church.

Isaac Knell has been represented by the Rev. Samuel
Peters as an Episcopalian as early as "about 1690," but he
was a Congregationalist and took an active part in that soci-
ety's proceedings, in settling a minister in 1698; and ten
years later he was so much attached to Mr, John Reed when
he had closed his labors in Stratford, that the following deed
is found in the land records: "July 13, 1708, Isaac Knell and
John Clark for good will and affection," deeded to " Mr.
John Reed for the space of ten thousand years, the day of
this date forward ... all our undivided lands in Stratford."
Mr. Peters calls him " Mr. Knell," but there was no other
Mr. Knell than Isaac, in the town, at that time ; and he died
only a few months later — November 2, 1708. He was a prom-
inent, active man in the town, but probably was never an
Episcopalian.

Doctor James Laborie, son of the Rev. James Laborie,
an Episcopal clergyman and a physician, was born in 1691,
and settled in Stratford as a physician, where, in 1714, he

Tlie Episcopal Church. 317

was granted liberty, by a town vote, to build a pew in the
Congregational meeting-house, at his own expense, it being
the second pew in that house, the other scats being high-back
slips.

The Episcopal Church was introduced, in form, into
Connecticut at Stratford in the summer of 1706, by the Rev.
George Muirson, in the. use of the church service, preaching,
and the baptism of " about twenty-four, mostly grown
people.'" His visits, as a missionary for the Society for the
Propagation of the Gospel in foreign parts, stationed at Rye,
N. Y., were repeated, and the "churchmen of Stratford were
organized into a parish, with Wardens and Vestrymen, at the
visit of Mr. Muirson, in April, 1707.'"

"Mr. Muirson died in October, 1708," and hence "the
parish, with about thirty communicants and a respectable num-
ber of families, was left to the occasional services of mission-
aries who chanced to visit this and the neighboring towns. '"^

The circumstances in Stratford at Mr. Muirson's intro-
duction of the church service were favorable for such an ob-
ject. The community had been divided in sentiment, as to the
settlement of a minister, nearly four years. Two candidates
had preached, some months each, before Mr. Reed, who was
called on probation in view of a settlement, with much enthu-
siasm, by about a two-thirds majority of voters in the town ;
became a resident in the town, and held a fair majority
until he resigned. The votes in opposition to him, at any
time, were very few, but these, with those in favor of other
candidates, ranged from thirty to fifty during his stay in the
place. It was during his fourth year, in the summer of 1706,
that Mr. Muirson first came to the place and held services,
they being quite opportune under the unsettled state of relig-
ious sentiment as to the minister.

The same trouble occurred again just before the Rev. Sam-
uel Johnson was appointed missionar}^ to Stratford. The divis-
ion as to the settlement of a minister after Mr. Cutler left, in

1 Hist, of the Church in Connecticut by Rev. E. E. Beardsley, D.D., i. 20.

Ibid.
^ Ibid, i. 23.

3i8 History of Stratford.

lyig, was much greater than when Mr. Reed ministered here,
until Mr. Gold became a candidate, and when he was settled,
there were some apparently who were ready to go elsewhere
as soon as opportunity favored, but the greatest accessions of
substantial value to the Episcopal Church occurred between
the years 1740 and 1750.

Another missionary, the Rev. Francis Philips, was sent
to Stratford in 1712, who remained about five months and de-
parted.

In the spring of 1714, the churchmen of Stratford began
the work of building a church edifice, but discouragements
were so many that only little progress was made.

The next missionary who visited them was the Rev.
George Pigot, in the spring of 1722, he having been recently
sent as missionary to New York. After his visits had contin-
ued about one year, proceedings were revived to build a
church and the first important item was to secure a site on
which to place it, and they made application to the town
for a certain specified locality.

Very much has been said about the persecution they
received in obtaining a site and erecting a house of wor-
ship, and it is probable that in a community entertaining
some considerable conflicting religious sentiments, as was
the case in Stratford at the time, some persons would do
things of such a character, but that the genei-al public senti-
ment favored such proceedings is not warranted by any reli-
able evidence, and is also refuted by the following town
record :

"At a lawful town meeting in Stratford, June 21, 1723,
voted: Whereas, Mr. George Pigott and his associates peti-
tioned the town of Stratford to give them land to erect a
church on and land for a church yard, and in their petition
fixed upon two certain places, the one by Mr. Gold's house,
and the other on the north side of the Town's meeting-house
near widow Titharton's land, the town considering their pro-
posals and the two places they had pitched upon, and found
them clogged with great difficulties, and that it would be as
they apprehend, greatly to the damage of the town in general,
to build on either of those places, however nominated some

The Episcopal CJuircJi. 319

other places which, as they thought, might be convenient for
them ; yet, notwithstanding, they went and purchased, of
John Outman, thirty-six rods of land of his lot next to our
meeting-house, within some four rods of said house, and gave,
as appears of record, thirty pounds for the same where they
designed to erect said church as they say, which, in the judg-
ment of all thinking persons, may be very inconvenient and a
great disturbance to each society, the houses being so near
together, if erected there; the town, therefore, propose and
offer to Mr. George Pigott and his associates aforesaid, to
change with them, and for the thirty-six rods of land pur-
chased of said Outman, and to allow them for it forty rods of
land at the place they desired in their petition (namely, by
the widow Titharton's) on the north side of the meeting-house ;
or in lieu of said thirty-six rods of land to let them have the
forty rods aforesaid at a reasonable rate and price to erect
their church on and church yard, and the town made choice
of Mr. Joseph Curtis, Capt. John Hawley, Ens. Edmund
Lewis and Ens. John Porter, or any of them, a committee in
behalf of the town to present the above proposals and offers
of the town to the said Mr. George Pigott and his associates,
petitioners, etc. Test, Joseph Curtiss, Town Clerk."

Five days after this meeting a record of opposition was
made, it being the only one, although the accommodating
town clerk left half a page blank for others, but it has not yet
been filled :

"June 26, 1723. Lieut. Joseph Beach entered his dissent
against the town disposing of any land of the commons on
the north of the meeting-house hill by widow Titharton's, for
the erecting of a church on, or church yard upon.

Test: Joseph Curtiss, Town Clerk."

The lot near the widow Titharton's was accepted, which
was the one where the Episcopal burying place now is, and
upon it was erected the first church edifice for this society,
and the first for the Church of England in the Connecticut
Colony ; and the lot purchased of Mr. Outman was sold some
years later.*

■* Mr. George Pigot quit claimed this land to the church, March 14, I72|.

320 History of Stratford.

The Rev. Samuel Johnson arrived at Stratford Novem-
ber 4, 1723, being commissioned as a missionar}' to this place
bv the society in England, at which time the frame of the
church edifice could scarcely have been set up, since the site
was not determined upon until in July or August of that year,
if as early as that time.

This building has been described as " a neat, small
wooden building, forty-five feet and a half long, thirty and a
half wide, and twenty-two between joints, or up to the roof,"
and was built, partly, at the expense of the members of the
Church of England, in Stratford, and partly by the liberal
contributions of several pious and generous gentlemen of the
neighboring provinces, and sometimes of travelers who occa-
sionally passed through the town.'"

It was opened for divine service on Christmas day, 1724.

Mr. Johnson's missionary field was very large ; for, be-
sides occasional visits to a greater distance, his labors were
distributed among the following places: Fairfield, Norwalk,
Newtown, Ripton, West Haven, and New Haven.

Success to a good degree attended the labors of the mis-
sionaries in this place. At Mr. Muirson's death, in 1708, it is
said: "The parish, with about thirty communicants and a
respectable number of families, was now left to the occasional
services of missionaries who chanced to visit this and the
neighboring towns."*

The Vestry and Wardens quit claimed the same April 4, 1729.

Nehemiah Lorin, ^ Church
Richard Rogers, i Wardens.
William Smith, 1

Tames Lahore, .,

•' )■ Vestry.

John Benjamin, 1

Samuel French, j

This land was sold by quit claim to Mr. Joseph Brown, April 19, 1731, by

John Benjamin, Church Warden.
William Smith.
Thomas Latten.
John Kee.
Francis Barlow.

* The Church in Conn., i.

* Dr. Beardsley's Hist, of the Church in Conn., i. 24.

The Episcopal CJinrcJi. 321

In 1723, it is said : "The parish of Stratford, when he
[Mr. Johnson] came to it, numbered about thirty families;
and forty more — to say nothing of the few churchmen farther
eastward — might be included in the neighboring towns and
districts.'" In 1727, Mr. Johnson, in writing to the Honora-
ble Society, represented " that he had then in his parish fifty
families, or about one-seventh of the whole number of families
in the town."

The fact that the supporters of the Episcopal Church in
Stratford and in Connecticut were required by law to pay
taxes for the support of the Congregational churches, was the
one most irritating and distressing difficulty with which they
had to contend. It was a sore trial, and was all wrong, but
was just what dissenting bodies were undergoing in England
at the same time, and this is the only excuse, that a law had
been established in this respect, in harmony with the law in
England, and to it the English government made no objec-
tion. The law in Connecticut was in favor of the Congrega-
tional churches; the law in England was in favor of the
Church of England.

The law in Connecticut was enforced, in regard to the
organization of new Congregational parishes, in that the par-
ties were required to pay to the old society until recognized
by the General Court as a new society, for a part or the
whole of the year.

A close examination of the record of town acts between
1706, and 1730, reveals no vote in Stratford to release the
supporters of the Episcopal Church from paying taxes to the
established church ; and it would have been contrary to the
law to pass such a vote.

In 1727, upon the petition of the Episcopal people of
Fairfield, an act was passed by the legislature to relieve the
members of the Episcopal Church from paying to the support
of the Congregational churches.*

^ Ibid, 54. Ibid, 60.

8 "May, 1727. Be it enacted by the Governor, Council and Representatives, in Gen-
eral Court assembled, and by the authority of the same.
That all persons who are of the Church of England, and those who are of the

churches established b}^ the laws of this government, that live in the bounds of

322 History of St rat for a.

After this, no vote of the town of Stratford has been
seen, recognizing this act, until January, 1737-8, when, in-
stead of saying, as usual, that the tax was for the salary of
the minister, it says " to defray ministerial salaries and
charges." Hence, the tax was laid on all persons alike, in
the society, but that collected from Episcopalians was paid
to the Episcopal minister or Church.

It further appears that the Episcopal Church and people
of Stratford were treated in a friendly manner by the voters
and proprietors of the common lands in the town.

Dr. Samuel Johnson was greatly in favor of education in
higher branches as well as the lower. His influence at Yale
College was decidedly helpful and notedly generous. The
following record in Stratford was a movement projected by
himself:

" At a town meeting ist Monday in February, 1733-4,
the Rev. Samuel Johnson, in behalf of the members of the
Church of England in Stratford, requesting the liberty of
erecting and setting up a School House on the Common,
near the southeast corner of Lieut. Joseph Beach's house lot;
on consideration thereof Edmund Lewis, John Thompson,
Esq., and Captain John Wells were chosen a committee to
view and consider the most important and convenient place,
and where said committee shall fix the place that they shall

any parish allowed by this Assembly, shall be taxed by the parishioners of the
said parish by the same rule and in the same proportion, for the support of the
ministrjr in such parish : but if it so happen that there be a society of the Church
of England, where there is a person in orders according to the canons of the
Church of England, settled and abiding among them, and performing divine ser-
vice, so near to any person that hath declared himself of the Church of England
that he can conveniently and doth attend the public worship there, then the col-
lectors, having first indiferently levied the tax as above said, shall deliver the taxes
collected of such persons declaring themselves and attending aforesaid, unto the
minister of the Church of England living near unto such persons ; which minister
shall have full power to receive and recover the same, in order to his support in
the place assigned to him. But if such proportion of taxes be not sufficient in
any society of the Church of England, to support the incumbent there, then such
society may levy and collect of them, who profess and attend as aforesaid, greater
taxes at their own discretion, for the support of their minister. And the parish-
ioners of the Church of England, attending as aforesaid, are hereby excused from
pa)'ing any taxes for building meeting-houses for the present e^tablisht churches
of this government."

The Episcopal CJmrch. 323

think most convenient, liberty is granted for said persons
there to erect and set up said school house."

This was about seventy years before the building was
erected on the green, still remembered as the Academy, and
whether Dr. Johnson secured the erection of a school house
as proposed, has not been ascertained.

Another item indicates this spirit of friendliness and also
equity toward the members of the Episcopal Church, as well
as all others; it was the granting of land to those members
for their church or minister in proportion as the town or pro-
prietors had granted to the Congregational ministers. When
Mr. Chauncey was settled here, some land was given him, as
a settlement. When Mr. Cutler was settled, one hundred
acres, besides a house lot, were given to him, and one hun-
dred acres were given to Mr. Jedediah Mills on his settle-
ment at Ripton ; and a number of acres were given to Mr.
Richardson Minor, upon his settlement at Unity.

In the winter of 1735-6, the supporters of the Episcopal
Church petitioned the proprietors of the common lands in
the town to grant them land for their church in proportion to
what had been granted to the Congregational ministers of the
town, and a committee was appointed by the proprietors to
ascertain how much land should in equity be thus sequest-
ered. Upon that committee's report the following action
was taken by the proprietors' meeting :

" March, 1736. Whereas, several persons belonging to
the Church of England in Stratford for themselves and the
rest of their brethren proprietors in said Stratford belonging
to said Church of England, making request and desiring an
equivalent of land may be allowed them for the lands form-
erly given to several Presbyterian ministers in fee and some
given the use in said Stratford, in consideration whereof it
was voted that our friends and neighbors in Stratford belong-
ing to the Church of England, and being also proprietors in
the common and undivided land in said Stratford, shall have
the liberty of having laid out to them, collectively considered,
ten acres of land in any of the common and undivided land
six miles distant, provided it be in full satisfaction for their
proportion in all lands formerly given to the Presbyterian

324 History of Stratford.

ministry in said Stratford, either for use or in fee, said land
to be taken up in one entire piece in the six-mile division, so
called. Said vote passed nemine contradicente."^

Four years later another request made, was as readily
granted :

" To the moderator of the Proprietors' meeting in Strat-
ford the nth day of instant, February, A. D., 1739-40, and
the proprietors of Stratford of the common and undivided
land, the humble request of us, the subscribers for ourselves,
and on behalf of the rest of our brethren members of the
Episcopal Church of England in Stratford, that, whereas sun-
dry persons have subscribed to an instrument of equal date
of these presents to give out of our rights of land in the last
six-mile division granted the first Tuesday of instant, Febru-
ary, for the proper use, benefit and behoof of the Episcopal
Church of England in Stratford, this is, therefore, to request
that we, the subscribers, may have the liberty to take up the
same land subscribed adjoining to a tract lately laid out [the
ten acres] for the use of the Church of England, or if that
cannot be, we may have liberty to take the whole of the sub-
scription in one piece, if that may be found convenient.
Subscribed by Samuel Blagge.
Samuel French.
William Beach.
Francis Hawley.
Joseph Brown.

" Which above said request, at said meeting, was granted,
provided they lay not out above twenty acres, as aforesaid."
These petitioners were the officers of the church.

The restriction to twenty acres, limited only the laying
twenty acres in one piece. They might have given hundreds
of acres, in various places, if they had chosen.

•' " Church' s land :

Laid out ten acres by the proprietors' Committee — adjoining to the
South end of Menhantuck Swamp, so called — beginning at a pond of water on the
east side of Newtown road.

"May 6. 1736. Edmund Lewis,

Jose Blacklach,
Theoph. Nicolls,

Proprietors' Com."

The Episcopal Church.

325

It should be remembered that proprietors of common, or
undivided lands, were a different class from freeholders, for
there were some freeholders who had no rights in common
lands, but the number was small.

There were seventeen names attached to the paper re-
ferred to in the above petition, and the number of acres given
are recorded, except in the case of the two last names, one of
which the figures arc not intelligible, the other has no figure
attached, probably by the carelessness of the recorder.'"

The owners of the common land, at this time, numbered
199, holding rights, claiming from a small fraction of an acre
to nearly fifty acres, according as each held a greater or less
proportion of one of the original seventeen rights. There
were at this time a number of thousand acres of land undi-
vided, but lying in smaller pieces in many portions or parts
of the township.

So far then as the actions of the citizens, in town meetino-

assembled, and those of the proprietors of the common lands
are concerned, there seems to have been a spirit of equity
and neighborly conduct manifested, throughout, toward the
supporters of the Episcopal Church in Stratford.

Some misapprehension seems to have been entertained as
to the relation of the Connecticut government to other denom-
inations than the legally established churches. The early set-
tlers were very nearly unanimous in their religious prefer-

'" " To all whom these presents shall come, Greeting — Know ye that we
whose names are under written, Do give unto the Episcopal Church of England
in Stratford, the several parcels of land affixed to our names .... for the only
use, benefit, and behoof of ye s'' Church of England and their successors forever.

Feb. II, 1739-40.

William Beach, 3 acres.

Samuel French, i

Samuel French, Jr., %

Samuel Blagge, ^

Francis Hawley, %

James Fairchild, %

Caleb Beardslee, i

Joseph Shelton, 3

Elephalet Curtiss, i acres.

Joseph Lewis, ^ "

Benjamin Lewis, ^ "

Elisha Blagge, f "

James Bears, ^ "

Jonathan Curtiss, 60 Rods.
Richard Blacklach.
Edmund Lewis."

Israel Beardslee, % and % quarter.
Land Records, B. 9, page 132.
This land was laid next to Newtown line, April 4, i743-

326 History of Stratford.

ences and ideas of church g-overnment ; but soon persons be-
gan to settle here, holding different views in these matters,
and as soon as these persons became sufficient in number to
indicate the propriety of toleration, the General Court con-
ceded the question, and acted accordingly.

TJie Connecticut Act of Toleration.

" General Court, May, 1669.

This Court having seriously considered the great divis-
ions that arise amongst us about matters of church govern-
ment, for the honor of God, wellfare of the churches, and
preservation of the publique peace so greatly hazarded, doe
declare that, whereas the Congregationall churches in these
parts for the generall of their profession and practice, have
hitherto been approved, we can doe no less than still ap-
prove and countenance the same to be without disturbance
until better light in an orderly way doth appeare ; but, yet,
for as much as sundry persons of worth for prudence and piety
amongst us are otherwise persuaded (whose wellfare and
peaceable sattisfaction we desire to accommodate). This
Court doth declare that all such persons being allso approved
according to lawe as orthodox and sownd in the fundamen-
talls of [the] Christian religion may have allowance of their
persuasion and profession in church wayes or assemblies
without disturbance.""

This did not include Quakers, for they were regarded, in
those da)'S, as not orthodox, but light was springing as if from
a hundred hamlets and spreading like the rays of the rising
sun, and hence, six years later, in 1675, the Quakers w^ere re-
lieved from persecution, in the following act, although not
allowed to meet in separate assemblies. " This Court being
moved to consider of the law respecting Quakers, doe see
cause at present to suspend the penaltv for absence from our
publique assemblies or imprisonment of those of that perswa-
sion, provided the}^ do not gather into assemblies in this Col-
ony or make an}- disturbance."

" Col. Rec, ii. log.

Connecticut Toleration. 327

The act of 1669 allowed persons of every persuasion, if
orthodox in faith, to hold public worship — or, in its own
words, " that all such persons being also approved, according
to law as orthodox, and sound in the fundamentals of [the]
Christian religion, may have allowance of their persuasion
and profession in church ways, or assemblies, without dis-
turbance."

Although these acts did not secure full liberty of con-
science— a thing then unknown to law in the world — yet, how
great was the contrast between the religious liberties of Con-
necticut at that time, and those of England, the mother coun-
try whence the pilgrims came, where the Church of England
was then in the ascendancy, and her Bishops held full sway.
King Charles II. was restored to authority in 1660, and soon
after a convocation of divines changed various parts of the
Prayer Book, and added severe terms of conformity ; and it has
been said it " was the study of the Bishops to make the terms
of conformity as hard as possible ;" and, " on St. Bartholo-
mew's day, August the twenty-fourth, in the year 1662, the
act of uniformity expelled from the establishment [the Eng-
lish Church] all ministers who would not swear their un-
feigned assent and consent to everything in the Book of Com-
mon Prayer. In many parts of the kingdom, the ministers
could not procure the book before the time within which the
law required them to swear to it or resign their livings, so
that, in their farewell sermons, they told their flocks, that they
were obliged to leave them for not swearing to a book which
they had not been able to see.

" Two thousand ministers resigned their livings in the
establishment, and exposed themselves to the loss of all things,
rather than submit to these new terms of conformity, which
their consciences condemned.

" The great Mr= Locke styled these two thousand ejected
ministers, learned, pious, orthodox divines."

But this was not the severest part of the persecutions
which then reigned with a high and severe hand.

" The conventicle act was passed, decreeing, that if any
person, above the age of sixteen years be present at an}'
meeting for worship, different from the Church of England,

228 History of Stratford.

where there shall be more than five persons more than the
household, they shall, for the first offence, suffer three months
imprisonment, or pay five pounds; for the second, the pun-
ishment was doubled; and for the third, they shall be ban-
ished to America, or pay a hundred pounds ; and if they re-
turn from banishment, suffer death."

" The oath of an informer was sufficient to inflict all the
severity of this statute, and thus, while many of the best men
filled the jails, the vilest of the human race rioted in debauch-
ery by informing- for the sake of the reward.""

A few years later and further measures were taken against
the non-conforming ministers. " An act of passive obedience,
and non-resistance was enacted ; and all who refused it, were
prohibited from coming within five miles of any corporate
town where they formerly preached ; or from keeping schools,
or taking boarders, under a penalty of forty pounds. Thus,
though they were not actually burnt alive, they were inten-
tionally starved to death.""

Twenty years did these proceedings continue under the
reign of Charles IL, even until his death in 1680.

Such is the contrast between England and the Connecti-
cut Colony, from 1660 to 1680. Connecticut, it is true, did
enact a severe law against the Quakers, Ranters, Adamites
and such like notorious Heretics," as styled in the language
of that day ; and did hang a few witches, which is, and ever
will be, greatly to her dishonor, but her colonists brought the
laws, sentiments, usages and customs, by which these things
were done, with them from England, adhered to them a few
years only, and then in the grandeur of the freedom of which
they just began to taste, threw off the yoke of bondage and
religious persecution, and established a platform of civil free-
dom such as the sun had never before shone upon, and such
that the English government sought, for nearly one hundred
years, with many inventions, to deprive them of, but failed,
and that failure established the nation called the United
States of America.

'-* History of Dissenters, i. 98, and following.
'■' Ibid, 100.

Toleration in England. 320

The Act of Toleration, under King James II. of Eng-
land was established in 1687, eighteen years after the like act
was made a law in Connecticut. " It suspended all penal
laws against all classes of non-conformists ; authorized Roman
Catholics and Protestant dissenters to perform public wor-
ship ; forbade the molestation of any religious assembly;
abrogated all laws imposing religious test as a qualification
for office; and granted entire liberty of conscience, to all the
King's subjects.""

This act, although planned and executed by the King for
another end than ireedom, was, nevertheless, a law of great
progress and value, compared with the terrible laws of relig-
ious persecution which had been in existence unto that day ;
but Connecticut had already adopted like regulations, and
these from England were readily accepted by her.

One thing has been charged 'to the discredit of the fore-
fathers of Connecticut with less consideration and with
greater censure than all others put together; namely, the
union of church and state, and thereby the levying of taxes
by law to support the ministry.

To this but two things need be named in reply ; one, that
they knew no other way ; and the other, that it seemed to
them a self-evident law, that those who were benefited, should,
in proportion to their ability, pay for the benefits received.

As to the first it was the law of the land whence they
came, all their experiences had been under that discipline, and
when they left their mother country they had made no com-
plaint whatever at being required by law to support the
preaching of the gospel.

When they had effected a settlement in the wilderness,
and the question of permanency arose as to the life they were
to live, and the characters they hoped and proposed to form,
of right and righteousness, they judged the preaching of the
gospel the most important agent to be used, and for that
reason made the most equitable provision for that end, of
which they had any knowledge.

They stated their own case by the action of the Commis-

'•^ Hume.

330 History of Stratford.

sioners for the United Colonies, September 5, 1644, which
was adopted by Connecticut, thus :

" Whereas, the most considerable persons in these col-
onies came into these parts of America that they might injoye
Christ in his ordinances, without disturbance; And, whereas,
among many other precious mercyes, the ordinances are, and
have been, dispensed among us with much purity and power:
The Commissioners took it into serious consideration, how
some due mayntenance according to God might be provided
and settled, both for the present and future, for the encourage-
ment of the ministers who labour therein, and concluded to
propound and commend it to each General Court, that those
that are taught in the word in the several plantations, be
called together, that every man voluntarily set down what he
is willing to allow to that end and use ; and if any man re-
fuse to pay a meet proportion, that then he be rated by au-
thority in some just and equal way ; and if after this, any
man withold or delay due payment, the civil power to be
exercised as in other just debts. '"^

This was the beginning of the law which, a few years
later, required every taxpa3^er to pay to the support of the
church or churches in his plantation or town.'^ When the
law was enacted to allow freedom or choice as to church pref-
erences, and worship in 1669, it did not release the citizen from
paying tax for the support of the legally established church

'5 Col. Rec, i. 112.

"' Law of Connecticut Published in i6jO.

" It is ordered by this Court and Authority thereof, that every inhabitant shall
henceforth contribute to all charges, both in Church and Commonwealth, whereof
he doth or may receive benefit, and every such inhabitant who doth not voluntarily
contribute proportionally to his ability with the rest of the same Towne to all com-
mon charges, both Civil and Ecclesiastical, shall be compelled thereunto by assess-
ments and distress, to be levied by the Constable or other officer of the Towne as
in other cases ; And, that the Lands and Estates of all men, wherever the)- dwell,
shall be rated for all Towne Charges, both Civil and Ecclesiastical, as aforesaid,
where the Lands and Estates shall lie, and their persons, where they shall dwell."

At this time all persons from 16 yeais old and upwards, were taxed [ist]
"every person, except Magistrates and Elders of Churches, two shillings six
pence per head, and [2d] all estates, bothe real and personal, at one penny for
every twenty shillings." Conn. Col. Rec. i., 547.

Ecclesiastical Taxation. 33 1

of his community. Nor did the act of toleration in England
release any one from paying to the support of the ministry in
the English Church. So far had the idea of freedom in re-
ligious matters advanced in America, that, when from 1706,
to 1727, the communicants of the Episcopal Church were re-
quired by law, as all others, to pay to the support of the Con-
gregational Churches, they judged it a very grievous oppres-
sion, and some refused to do it and were imprisoned just as
Congregationalists would have been if they had refused ; but
at the same time all denominations were taxed in England for
the support of the ministers of the Episcopal Church.

There was also a great difference between the union of
Church and State in England and that in Connecticut. In
the former the layity had nothing to do in calling a minister
or the salary paid him, while in Connecticut the}- controlled
both, in the most democratic form then known, and the tax
collected for the minister was kept separate from all others,
and applied yearly, only upon the vote of the parish.

Such are some of the historical facts from which the
early settlers of Connecticut had come and through which
they had passed, and by which they were surrounded when
a second denomination of Christians had become established
by law in their territory.

The following extract is taken from a book called A Gen-
eral History of Connecticut, by the Rev. Samuel Peters, pub-
lished first in London, England, in 1781, and at New Haven
in 1829, page 166 :

Mr. Peters, being a very strong loyalist in the time of the
Revolution, found it to his comfort to go to England, where
he published this book, in which are many things of true his-
tory and also many things without a shadow of truth, and
which have the appearance of being published for the pur-
pose of defaming the people of Connecticut.

He married in Stratford, Mary, only daughter of William
Birdseye, April 20, 1773, and hence was acquainted in Strat-
ford.

The story which he relates concerning the Indian pow-
wow, had some foundation in tradition, and historical fact.
The Indians held yearly powwows, and held ceremonies with

232 History of Stratford.

extreme fanatical bodily exercises, but of this particular occa-
sion we hav'^e no account only this given by Mr. Peters.

" Stratford \\QS on the west bank of Osootonoc river, hav-
ing the sea or sound on the south.

There are three streets running north and south and ten
east and west. The best is one mile long. On the centre
square stand a meeting with a steeple and a bell, and a church
with a steeple, bell, clock, and oi-gan.

It is a beautiful place, and from the water has an appear-
ance not inferior to that of Canterbury. Of six parishes con-
tained in it, three are Episcopal.

The people are said to be the most polite of any in the
colony, owing to the singular moderation of the town in ad-
mitting latterly, Europeans to settle among them. Man}^
persons come also from the islands, and southern provinces,
for the benefit of their health.

Here was erected the first Episcopal Church in Connec-
ticut.

A ver}^ extraordinary story is told concerning the occa-
sion of it, which I shall give the reader the particulars of, the
people being as sanguine in their belief of it as they are of
the ship's sailing over New Haven.

An ancient religious rite called the Pawwaw, was annu-
ally celebrated b}^ the Indians ; and commonly lasted several
hours every night for two or three weeks. About 1690, they
convented to perform it on Stratford point near the town.
During the nocturnal ceremony the English saw, or imagined
they saw, devils rise out of the sea, wrapped up in sheets of
flame, and flying round the Indian camp, while the Indians
were screaming, cutting, and prostrating themselves before
their supposed fiery gods. In the midst of the tumult the devils
darted in among them, seized several, and mounted with
them into the air; the cries and groans issuing from whom
quieted the rest. In the morning, the limbs of Indians, all
shrivelled, and covered with sulphur, were found in different
parts of the town. Astonished at these spectacles, the people
of Stratford began to think the devils would take up their abode
among them, and called together all the ministers in the
neighborhood, to exorcise and lay them. The ministers be-

Alt Indian Powwow. 333

gan and carried on their warfare with prayer, hymns, and ad-
juration : but the pawwaws continued, and the devils would
not obey.

The inhabitants were about to quit the town, when Mr.
Nell spoke and said: "I would to God that Mr. Visey, the
Episcopal minister at New York, was here ; for he would ex-
pel these evil spirits." They laughed at his advice; but, on
his reminding- them of the little maid who directed Naaman
to a cure for his leprosy, they voted him their permission to
bring Mr. Visey at the next pawwaw.

Mr, Visey attended, accordingly, and as the pawwaw
commenced with bowlings and whoops, Mr. Visey read por-
tions of the holy scripture, litany, etc. The sea was put into
great motion; the pawwaw stopped ; the Indians dispersed
and never more held a pawwaw in Stratford.

The inhabitants were struck with wonder at this event,
and held a conference to discover the reason why the devils
and pawwawers had obeyed the prayers of one minister, and
had paid no regard to those of fifty. Some thought that the
reading of the holy scripture, others that the Litany and
Lord's prayer; some, again, that the Episcopal power of the
minister, and others, all united were the means of obtaining
the heavenly blessing they had received.

Those who believed that the holy scriptures and litany
were effectual against the devil and his legions, declared for
the Church of England; while the majority ascribed their
deliverance to a complot between the devil and the Episco-
pal minister, with a view to overthrow Christ's vine planted
in New England. Each party acted with more zeal than
prudence."

This story of expelling the devils from Stratford has
about as much force against the Congregationalists as the
story still told as to the cause of the mosquitoes in Stratford.
That cause, it is well known, is the great salt meadow of 1,500
or 2,000 acres below Stratford on the Sound, yet a jocose
story is told of another cause.

It is said, when the Rev. George Whitefield preached in
Stratford, he represented all the Episcopal people as never
having been converted, and they, in turn, were very severe

334 History of Stratford.

in remarks on Mr. Whitefield ; and that when he left Strat-
ford he shook off the dust of his feet against them, saying, the
curse of God would come upon them. That curse, it has
been said, was the coming of the mosquitoes.

The Episcopal Burying Place. Established in 172J.

The purpose in copying these inscriptions, has been to
present every one just as it is on the stone — the names, dates,
verses and spelling, every word and letter on each and every
stone to the date of June loth, 1885 ; and much care and
effort have been employed to make this record correct.
There are four or five inscriptions so effaced that they could
not be copied.

Tlie Episcopal Burying-place.

335

Inscriptions in the Episcopal Biirying-place in Stratford.

Sacred to the Memory of
Clarissa, wife of the Rev. Ashbel
Baldwin, & Daughter of Mr. Samuel
& Mrs. Margaret Johnson of Guilford:
born July 7, 1761, & departed this
Life April 16, 1823, aged 62.
Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.

Anne Bart'Oivs, of New York, died
March 16, 1844, JE. 88.

Leivis Starr, son of Samuel & Har-
riet Barnum, died Jan. 6, 1830, JE.
4 yrs.

When the Arch Angel's trump shall sound
And souls to bodies join,
What crowds shall wish their lives below
Had been as short as theirs.

A.nn Hebecca, daughter of Samuel

& Harriet Barnum, died Aug. 29,

1837, M. 2 yrs.

Also
Jlllius Ctirtiss, Died Aug. 20, 1834:

JE. 7 mos. & 14 ds.

Suffer little children to come unto me & forbid
them not.

Aaron Beard, Died Jan. 11, 1853,

^.59.
Beneath this stone repose the remains of
Francis 31. Beard, who died May

5, 1S43 : Aged 19 years.

In Memory of
Mr. Abijah Beardslee, who died
Sept. 3, 1839, '" the 76*'' year of his
age.

In Memory of

Mr. Abraham Beardslee, who

died Feb. 13, 1815, Aged 88 Years.

In Memory of
Major B. Beardsley, who died
Nov. 14, 1847, Aged 38.

In memory of

Charles Frederich Beardslee,

son of Wilson & Louisa Beardslee,
who died Oct. 13, 1843, in 20 year of
his age.

Dearest son since thou hast left us
Here thy loss we deeply feel,
But 'tis God that hath bereft us.
He can all our sorrows heal.
Yet again we hope to meet thee
When the days of life are fled,
Then in heaven we hope to greet thee,
Where no farewell tear is shed.

In Memory of
3Irs, Bethia Beardslee, wife of

Mr. Abraham Beardslee, who died
Aug. 4"', 1801, In the 71"' Year of her
age.

In Memory of
Caroline, daughter of Ephraim & Sa-
rah Beardsley, who died Jan. 24,
1827, yE 3 yr. 6 mo.

In Memory of
Christana, wife of Henry Beardsley,
who died Feb. 27"", 1S23, aged 89
years.

In Memory of
Curtiss Beardeslee, who departed
this Life Sept. 13"', 1796, in the 43'*
Year of his age.

In Memory of
3IariJ, wife of Curtiss Beardsley, who

died Oct. 15, 1822, aged 62 years.
Ephriam, their son, died Jan. 10,
1793 : aged 16. Two Infant children
of David & Rebecca Beardsley, one
died 1817, the other June, 1S22.
In memory of
Henry Beardslee, who died Aug.
13, 1806, aged 69 years.

0 weeping friends your tears withold,
Nor mourn me as forever gone :

1 go as God himself has told.

To wake at resurrection morn.

In Memory of
Nancy, wife of Abijah Beardsley, who

died Oct. 8, 1811 : JE. 45
Oliver Beardsley, died Dec. 30.
1793. JE. 3.
Six children she has left
To mourn and lament her death.

The God that made her called her home
Because he thought it best.

In Memory of
Fhilo Beardslee, who died Feb. 20,
1846, JE 80 years.

In Memory of
William Beardsley, who died

August 21, 1841, aged 73 years.
3Ir. Abel Beach, Departed this life

December i6"', 1768. In the 38"' year

of his age.

His affectionate Sister Ann Johnson, erected
this Stone to the Memorv of a Krothcr whom
she tenderly loved and lamented.

336

History of Stratford.

Here lies Inter'd tlie Body of
Mrs. Hannah Beach, Relict of
Mr. Isaac Beach, who Departed this
life Oct'r y« 15"', A.D. 1750, in the
79*'' year of her age.

[A Tablet.]
[The first or uppermost inscription on
this tablet is gone by the slate-stone
being removed. It was that of Wil-
liam Beach, who m. Sarah Hull, and
died in 1751.]

His worthy Relict
JMi's. SaraJi Heach, was afterwards
married to the Reverend Dr. Johnson,
President of Kings College at New
York: and died of the small-pox
with much patience. Faith and Resig-
nation, Feb'>' g"", 1763, ^tat. 61 : And
lies interred under the Chancel of
Trinity Church there.
Colo. Aaron JienjaftiiUf Nov. 23,
182S, Aged 72 years.

He was an officer of the Revolution and serv-
ed his country faithfully through the whole of
that struggle for freedom which resulted in the
complete establishment of our National Inde-
pendence. He also had command of the im-
portant post of New London during the 2d war
with Great Britain.

He was a firm friend, a true patriot and an
honest man.

Dorothy JBenjainin, wife of Col.
Aaron Benjamin, Born March 3, 1768,
Died Oct. 4, 1853.
Precious are the memories of the Home
that was blessed with her love and virtue.
Sacred is the grave of our Mother.

<Johti Benjamin, Son of the late
Col. Aaron Benjamin, died Sept. 22,
1816, aged 43.
He was a man beloved by all who knew him

for his benevolence, strict integrity and christian

character.

Olivia Eloiza Benjamin, Daugh-
ter of Col. Aaron Benjamin, Born
March 7, 1792, Died Januarv 6, 1853.

Adele, Daughter of John & Hannah S.
Benjamin, died Oct. 22, 1871, Aged
10 years & 9 mos.

"Abide with me."

Alexr. Gillon Benja/tnin, son of

John & Anna Maria Benjamin, died
Dec. 6, 1840, aged i year, 9 mo. & 8
days.

We shall go to him but he will not come back
to us.

Capt. D. Pulashi Benjamin,

son of Col. Aaron Benjamin, died
Oct. 27, 1883, in his 88"» year.
Susan Curtis, his wife, died Nov. 27,
1835, in^her 38"' year.

William Benjamin, Aged 79,
Born March, 1773, Died May, 1852.

In Memory of
Colo. John Benjamin, who de-
parted this life Sept. 14, 1796, in the
66"' year of his age.

In Memory of
3Irs. Lucrefia Benjamin,. Wife
of ttie late Colo. John Benjamin, who
died March 22'', 1803, Aged 69 Years.
Jolin BacJcinson, son of John &
Hannah S. Benjamin, Died Aug. 7,
1870, aged 1 year & 6 mos.

Here lies Buried the Body of
3Ir. John Benjamin, who depart-
ed this Life April the 13"', 1773, in
y"^ .73 Year of His Age.
Laura Gertrude, Daughter of W.
M. & S. J. Benjamin, died Sept. 5,
184S, ^. 4 yrs. & 4 mo.
Oh not in cruelty, not in wrath

The reaper came that day ;
'Twas an angel visited the green earth,
And bore our child away.

In Memory of
3Ir. JPhilij} Benjamin , who died
Feb. 20, A. D. 1815 : in the 86 year of
his age.

In Memory of
3Irs. Prudence Benjamin, Wife
of Mr. Philip Benjamin, who died
Febr. 19*'', 1795 : in the 64*'' year of
her age.

In Memory of
Gideon Benjamin, who died Nov.
5, 1846, Aged 87 yrs.

In memory of
Sarah Benjamin, wife of Gideon
Benjamin, who died Jan. 16, 1841, in
the Si year of her age.
Sarah Marie, wife of William Ben-
jamin, Aged 71, Born Oct. 17S2, Died
April, 1853.

[Monument.]

Sacred to the memory of

William Benjamin, Born January

I, 1800. Died March 2, 1862.

Mark the perfect man, and behold the

upright for the end of that man is peace.

In Memory of
William Benjamin, son of Capt.
D. Pulaski & Susan Benjamin, who
died Dec. 16, 1835, Aged 4 years.

God took him away from mortal sorrow
Before his little heart was ripen,
For a bright long day without a morrow.
To join his mother in the songs of heaven.

Here lies intered the Body of
Mr. Boger Bessin (?), late of An-
tigua, who departed this life Oct. )'*
26"', 1743, Aetatis 47, Having given a
100 pounds to the Church of England
iti this town.

Inscriptions in the Episcopal Burying-place.

00/

Here lie y" remains of
Eunice Anne Jlirdsetf, Dau"^ of
Mr. Everett & Mrs. Phebe Birdsey,
who died Sept. ig, 1773, Aged 3 years
& 2 Months.

In Memory of
Everett Jiirclaeij, who died Oct. 30,
1845, yE. 68.

In Memory of
jyidi'if, wife of Everett Birdsey, who
died Oct. 4, 1830, Aged 54 years.

In Memory of

Sarah Hirdseij, Dang'' of Mr. Ever-
ett & Mrs. Phoebe Birdsey, who de-
parted this Life May 9*'', 1773, Aged
9 Months.

In memory of

William Birdse;/, Son of Mr. Ev-
erett & Mrs. Phebe Birdsey, who died
August the 12, A.D. 1776, in the 2^
Year of His Age.

Here lie the remains of
3Ir. William Birdsey, who died

Sept. 10*'', 1795, Aged 76 Years.
Reader, reflect when you these lines peruse
On thy own self. What thou art & When
The grim triumphant tyrant Death may come
Oh ! be then like to him, & meet it, good.

In Memory of
3Iar!i Blaheman, Wife of Elijah
Blakeman, & Daughter of Samuel
Hubbell, who died Novr. 22'', 1809,
Aged 30 years & 8 months.

William Huhhelly Died in Wash-
ington, North Carolina, Oct. i^', 1809

^c. 32.

Behold and see as you pass by,
As you are now so once was I,
As I am now soon you will be.
Prepare for death and follow me.

JMr. JPhinehas Blakeman, Died

Nov. 28, 1812 ; aged 66 yrs.
Caroline E. Bowdhi, Daughter of
Rev. John Bowden, D.D., LL.D. died
Jan. 22, 1877.
Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.

Margaret, Daughter of Rev. John
Bowden, D.D., died March 19, 1880.

Sacred to the Memory of
Mrs. Mary Boivdeti, Relict of the
late Rev. John Bowden, D.D., who
died Dec. 29, 1819 : aged 64 years.
The kind friend,
The affectionate Mother,
The faithful Wife,
The exemplary Christian.

Amelia J. Boivden, Died Jan. 21,
1872.

Here lyes v" Body of
Mis. Anne Brooks, Wife of Mr.
David Brooks, Who Departed this
life October y" 6"', 1766, in y" 47 year
of Her Age.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
3Ir. David Brooks, Who departed

this Life June y" 11"', 1766, in y" 47"»
year of His Age.

In Memory of
Mrs. Elizabeth Brooks, the Belov-
ed Consort of Mr. Benjamin Brooks,
who departed this Mortal life on the
9*'' of October, 1773, in y" 28 year of
Her Age.

In Memory of
Isaac Brooks, who died July ii,
1797. aged 17 years.

In memory of
Joseph Brooks, who died Oct. 22,
1787, aged 39 years.

Here lyes y" Body of
Dinah Broirne, Daui"^ to James &
Elizabeth Browne, Died Jan"' y* s'*",
1739, in y 24"' Year of Her Age.

In Memory of
Joseph Brown, who Died Octbr. y"
25, A.D. 1757, Aged 70 [:'j yrs. & 6
Months.

Sacred To the memory of
BatJi Br oivn, who was born in this
town October lo, 1779, and died in
New York, March 6"', 1846 : in the
67*'' year of her age.

Also of her daughter
Sasan A. Chamherlin, who was
born March 3'', 1804, and died Janu-
ary 26*'', 1826, in the 23'' year of her
age.

Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.
Rev. XIV. 13.

In Memory of ,

3Iary, Daughter of Mr. Joseph & Mrs.
Mehetable Bryan, who died Novem-
ber I, A.D. 1753, aged 3 Years & ten
days.

In Memory of
Ann, wife of Ephraim Burritt, who
died Mar. 19, 1846, M. 80.

This stone is erected in memory of
3Ir. E2)hraim Barrett, Jiinr.,

who departed this life Oct. 26"», 1S02,
in the 40"' year of his age.
And in meinory o(
Abel Barritt, a child 6 weeks old,
son of Ephraim Burritt, Jur. & Ann
his Wife.

338

History of Stratford.

In Memory of
Wr. Ephraini Burrift, who died
August 18"', 1807, in the 77"^ year of
his age,

Here lies Buried the body of
Mrs. Phebe Burritt, wife of Mr.
Ephraim Burritt, Who died Oct. 26*'',
1708, in the 67"' Year of her Age.
In Memory of
Leivis Burritt, Who died Jan. 8,
1839, in the 67 Year of his age.
In Memory of
Esther Burritt, Wife of Lewis Bur-
ritt, who died Oct. 10, 1839 : in the
61 year of her age.

Here lies Buried the Body of
3Ir. Charles BurrouffJis, Junr.,
Who Departed this Life July the I2">
A. D. 1770, in the 40"^ year of his age.
Here lyes y** Body of
3Irs. Elizabeth. BurrouffJis, Wife
to Mr. Stephen Burroughs, Dautr. of
Mr. Joseph & Mrs. Parnai Brown,
Who died December 4*, 1764, in y®
36"^ Year of Her Age.

In Memory of
Lettice^ Wife of Charles Burroughs,
who died July 16, 1S02, aged 64 years.
Behold and see as you pass by,
As you are now so once was L
As I am now so you must be,
Prepare for death and follow me.

William Butler, Died Feb. 5, 1857,

yE68.
''Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord."

Mar If Ann, Relict of William But-
ler, Died July 30, 1866, JE. 57 yrs.

In Memor}^ of
Mr. Legrand Cannon, who de-
parted this Life June 2'', 1789, in the
57"" Year of his Age.

Here lies intered
LeGrand, son to LeGrand and Char-
ity Cannon, Who departed this Life
ye go"' of Aug^t, A. D. 1775; Aged 4
years.

Kind Reader,

A youthful Soul Solaced on high.

Think thou on thy Mortality.

Sacred to the Memory of
3Irs. Francis Chapman, who ex-
changed this Life in hope of a better
one the 30"' of December, A.D. 1783,
in the 80"' Year of her Age.

Sacred to the Memory of
Mr. Georf/e Chapman, who ex-
changed this Life in hopes of a better
on the 6"' June, A. D. 1777, in the
forty eighth Year of his Age.

Bessie Coleman, Born May 30,

1875, Died April 11, 1882.
Luther Copley, Died March 28,

1846, JE. 64.
Betsey, Wife of Luther Copley, Died

Sept. 2, 1852, M. 68.
Asa Curtis, died Feb. 11, 1850, J£.

76 y'rs.
Susan, the wife of Asa Curtis, died

Feb. 2, A.D. 1859, aged 85.
3Iary Eliza, daughter of Asa &
Susanna Curtis, died Oct. 28, 1722,
aged 20 years.

In Memory of
Chloe, Wife of Hannibal Curtiss, who
died April 24, 1S28, Aged 72.
God has bereaved me of My wife,
His will for him 1 stood,
It was God and he is Kind,
He does what seemeth him good.

In Memory of
Mr. Williani Curtis, who died

Aug. 14"', 1803, in the 40"^ Year of
his Age.

Francis, Wife of William Curtis,
Died Feb. 7, 1854, JE. 85.

Freddie, son of Claudus B. & Har-
riet Curtis, died Apr. 5, 1854, M 2
. y'rs & 8 mo.

Here lyes Buried the Body of

3Irs. Hannah Curtiss, Wife to Mr.
Ephraim Curtiss, Who Departed this
life Feb. y<= 2'^ 1761, in y'' 64"^ Year
of Her Age.

In Memory of

Isaac J. Curtiss, who died July 17,
1815, JE 78 yrs. & 4 mo.

In Memory of
Charity, wife of Isaac Curtiss, who

died Dec. 16, 1S46, M 75 Years.
Charity, Daughter of Isaac J. &

Charity Curtis, died Aug. 19, 1801.

In Memory of
3Ir. fJeremiah Judsoti Curtiss,

who Departed this Life Sept. y'^ 4"*,
A.D. 1782, in y« 67"! year of his Age.

In memory of
Thomas Curtis, Who died May 25*''
1787,^47. Also of three Children
of Thomas & Anna Curtis.

Benjamin, died at Sea Sept. 1789,
yEt 19.

Catharine, Died at N. York, Jan.
17"^, 179S, JEt. 21.

Beidten, Died at Sea, Feb. 8"', 1802,
yEt. 23.

Inscriptions in the Episcopal Burying-placc .

339

[A Broken Stone.]
May 21, 1815, aged 36 years. [E. C. on
the foot stone.]

Sacred to the Memory of
ElizahetJi Anne Davies, Daughter

of Henry Davies, Esqr., late of New
York, who died on tlie 22,'^ of Dec. 1799,

in the 19'^ Year of her Age.
Rich in every Virtue & directed by a sound
understanding, she was ever in pursuit of use-
ful knowledge while the cheerfulness with
which she discharged her duty endeared
her to all her Relatives and Friends : having a
mind stored with ever useful & ornamented ac-
quirements, she seemed fitted for an example
for the young & beautiful, & a Comfort to the
Aged, When by a momentary stroke of Death
she was called from health and Youth to a life
of everlasting felicity. [Several lines effaced.]

Sacred to the Memory of
Henry Davies^ Esqr., late of New
York, and formerlj' of his Britanic
Majesty's Navy in which he discharg-
ed many offices of trust and import-
ance with honor to himself and integ-
rity to his Country. After living in
the constant practice of piety toward
God and benevolence to MEN; after
fulfilling every dut}' in social and do-
mestic Life, died at this place on the
28"^ day of April, 1S02, in the 57 year
of his age in full hope of receiving
that reward which a redeemer hath
purchased for all who trust in him.

Charles S., son of Garry & Sally
Dayton, died Aug. 8, 1825, aged i
year and 10 months.

Hetsey, daughter of Garry & Sally
Dayton, died Dec. 18, 1827, aged 9
years and 9 Mo.

So fades the lovely blooming flower,

Frail smiling solace of an hour.

Sarah Dayton, Died Aug. 4, 1846,

JE 49 years.

In Memory of
JPegyy, wife of Henry Dean, who died

Feb. 10, 1822, in her 28 year.
Albert JDeForest, died Sept. 9, 1826,

aged 25 years.
Samuel E., died Sept. 11, 1810, aged

16 Mos.
Samuel 2d, died Jan. 1814, aged 2

years.
Children of Daniel & Phebe De Forest.
Ejihrian DeForesf, Died Oct. 27,

1848, M 61 yrs.
Phebe, wife of Daniel DeForest, Died

March 18, 1852, JE. 82.
Daniel DeForest, Died July 30,

1S33, aged 62 years.

David, son of Mr. Samuel Si. Mrs.
Ruth Edwards, died Oct. 6, 1815,
aged 7 years.

John C. Fairthild, died Feb. 22,

1825, Aged 79.
Ruth, His Wife, Died Oct. 28, 1804,
Aged 56.

Sacred to the Memory of
Sarah Avery, Daughter of John C.

& Ruth Fairchild, Born in this town

Feb. 28">, 1773, Died in New York,

May C"", 1837, Aged 64 years, 2

months & 6 days.

Respected and beloved by all ; a most brill-
iant example of virtue and loveliness she de-
parted this life rejoicing in the hope of a
glorious immortality.

Thou hast taught us to live and for death to
prepare.

By example and precepts most true.

May we copy thy virtues, thy glory to share,

Adieu dearest Sister, adieu.

Thou lived'st but to merit life better than this

Where the righteous ever shall dwell ;

Thou art gone to those mansions of heavenly
bliss.

Farewell dearest mother, farewell.

In Memory of
Robert Wells, son of William and
Hannah Fairchild, who departed this
life Sept. iS, 1805.
Lewis C, son of Benjamin & Eunice
Fairchild, died April 22, 1829, aged
7 yrs. & 8 mo.

Dear little boy thy years were few.
And suffering was thy lot below.
Jesus called, thou hast obey'd
And left a world of pain and wo.

Father

Dennis Fitch, Born Nov. 19, 179S,
Died Jan. 25, 1827.

Sarafi Francis, Daughter of Den-
nis & Eunice Fitch, I3orn Nov. 9,
1825, Died Aug. 18, 1827.

Mother
Eunice Jiirdsey, Wife of Dennis

Fitch, Born Aug. 25, 1799, Died Jan.

18, 1877.
Herona, Wife of Edmond Freeman,

Died Aug. 4, 1855, M 38.

In memory of

Esther, y" Wife of Mr. Stephen Frost,
who died Novem'' y'^ 2'', 1753, in y'
30''' year of Her Age.

Elizabeth Cannon, Wife of Alex-
ander S. Gorden, Died April 7, 1S76,
Aged 84 yrs. 7 mo.

In Memory of
3Ir, Frederick Ilauley, who De-
parted this life March v'^ 16*'', 1774,
in y^ 39"' year of his age.

340

History of Stratford.

Charity Iltibhell, Died March 21,
1866, J: 88. Erected by the Wardens
of Christ Church.

In Memory of
Elizahetll Hubbell, wife of Silas
Hubbell, died Feb. 5, 1S29, JEt. 74
yrs.

In Memory of
Capt. Ezra Hubbell, who was lost
at sea Sept. 1801, in the 35 Year of
his Age.
Mrs. 3Iary Alice, Wife of Capt
Ezra Hubbell, Died August 11, 1811,
Aged 28 Years.

In Memory of
3Ir. Josej)7i Habbell, who departed
this life May 9"', 1804, in the 2t^^ year
of his age.

This mortal shall put on immortality.
And of
Henjatnin [out — stone broken.]
Here lyes Buried the Body of
3Irs. Sarah Hubbell, Wife of Mr.
Joseph Hubbell, who died March 9^'',
1790, Aged 56 Years.

In Memory of
Silas Hubbell, who died Nov. 30,

1812, Aged 60 years.
WilUani Hubbell, Died Feb. 1856,

^55-

In Memory of
3Irs. Elizabeth Hurd, Wife of Mr.
Gilead Hurd, who departed this life
Aug. 8, 1787, in the [out] year of her
Age.

In Memory of
tTatie, wife of Jacob Hurd, who died
May 2, 1S25, aged 63 Years.
In Memory of
Daniel Jackson, a Revolutionary
pensioner, who died Aug. 25, 1841,
aged 78 yrs.

In Memory of
Elizabeth, Wife of Daniel Jackson,
who died March 17, 1839, Aged 78
yrs.

In Memorj' of
Daniel fJacLsou, who died Aug. 16,
1829, Aged 38 years.
Ah 'tis a holy rite remembrance of the dead.
That will not oblivion blight around the grave
be shed.

In Memory of
FredericJc, Son of Whitney & Clem-
tine Jackson, who died July 5, 1836,
JE 7 years & 9 mo.

In Memory of
Charles Jarvis, late of London,
who died Oct. 8, 1840, aged 76.

Here lyes ye Body of
3Irs. Sarah Jeans, Deceased Octo-
ber y" 16, 1739, in y*^ 72 year of her

age.

Here lyes ye Body of
3Ir. William Jeans, Deceased

Nov'r y*^ 17"% 1726, in y* 79*'' Year of

His Age.
Sacred to the Memory of three most

affectionate Sisters, The daughters of

W". Samuel Johnson, Esqr. And

Anne his Wife.
Sarah Johnson, Nata April 8*'^,

A. D. 1754; Obiit 20''' June, A. D.

1782.
3Iarff Johnson, Nata April 19"^, A.

D. 1759 ; Obiit. December 23'^ A. D.

1783.
Gloriana Anne Alden, the afifec-

tionate Wife of Roger Alden, Esqr.

Nata March 17"^, A. D. 1757, Obiit.

March 4*'', 1785.

31. S. Samuelis Johnson, D.D.,

Collegii Regalis Novi Eboraci Prsesi-
dis prmi et hujus Ecclesise nuper
Rectoris. Natus Die 14 to. Octob.
i6g6, Obit. 6 to. Jan. 1772.*
In decent dignity and modest mien.
The cheerful heart and countenance serene
If pure religion and unsullied truth,
His age's solace, and his search in youth.
If piety in all the paths he trod
Still rising vigorous to his Lord and God ;
If Charity thro' all the race he ran.
Still willing well, and doing good to man :
If learning, free from pedantry and pride ;
If Faith and Virtue, walking side by side ;
If well to mark his being's aim and end.
To shine thro' life a H usband. Father, Friend,
If these ambition in thy soul can raise.
Excite thy reverence, or demand thy praise ;
Reader, ere yet thou quit this earthly scene,
Revere his name, and be what he has been.
Myles Cooper.

Here lyes the body of
3Ir. John Johnson, who dec'^
Febu' y" 8"^, 1725, Aged 75.

In Memory of
3Ir. Archibald Jones, Who died
May 24, 1800, Aged 60 years.

In Memory of

3Irs. Sarah, consort of Mr. Archi-
bald Jones, Who died June 8^'', 1792,
Aged 53 years.

Hannah Jones, Died Sept. 8, 1855,
JE 81.

*This inscription is taken from Mr. J. W.
Barber's Historical Collections, for the reason
that the slate-stone inlaid on the tablet, on
which the lettering was placed, is entirely gone.
The same is true as to the slate-stone on seve-
ral other tablets in thisburying-place.

Inscriptions in the Episcopal Burying-place.

341

James Jones, Bom March 24, 1775,
Died April 6, 1853.

Esther, wife of James Jones, Born
Sept. 25, 1782, Died Ma}' 5, 1854.

In Memory of
John Jones, who died Aug. I, 1852,
Aged 34 years.

Hannah Jones, wife of John Jones,
Died Oct. 21, 1884, Aged 85 yrs.

Joseph Jones, Died Nov. 25, 1845,
JE. 76.

[Tablet.]
In Memory of
3Irs. Mai'i/ Jones, consort of Joel
Jones and eldest daughter of Isaac J.
Curtis, who departed this life Jan. 15,
1817 ; in the 25 year of her age ; leav-
ing with her afflicted friends a tender
infant which survived until April 21,
1817, when it declined the bitter cup
of life and joined its departed Moth-
er; aged 4 months & 22 days.
Also in Memor}'^ of
Julius Curtis, son of Joel & Mary
Jones, who departed this life Sept. 20,
181 5, aged 3 years and 5 months.
Unerring wisdom drew the awful veil
Bade the eye languish and the cheek grow pale.
From lips beloved the vital warmpth retired,
And life's faint lustre silently expired ;
The immortal spirit reached its destined height,
A star forever in the realms of light.
Here also lies entombed the remains of
Dillissenea, eldest son of Isaac J. &
Charity Curtis, who after long and
distressing illness which he bore with
Christian fortitude, resigned his soul
to God who gave it, on the 11 of June,
1817, in the 21 year of his age.
When tides of youthful blood run high,
And promised scenes of joy draw nigh.
Youth presuming, beauty blooming,
O ! how dreadful 'tis to die.

Woolsey S., son of John & Hannah

Jones, Died May 16, 1849. Aged 4

years & 4 mo.
George F., Son of Samuel & Betsey

Judson, died Aug. 16, 1820, aged 7

years & 4 months.

Here are Intered the Remains of
Mr. John Keyes, who departed this
Life March 29"^, A. D, 1753. in his
50"" year.

Here lyes y* Body of
Dr. James Lahorie, Physician,
Died Dec'r y** 26, 1739, in y* 48"»
Year of His Age.

George Lanipson, Died May 22,
1870, JE. 70 yrs.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
William Liamson, Who Departed
this Life Jany. y" 21", A. D. 1755,
Aged 60 Years, 2 Months & 27 Ds.

Charles T., Died Dec. 21. 1838, Aged
14 yrs. & II Mos.

Be ye also ready.

Caroline L., Died July i, 1844, Aged
16 yrs. & 5 Mos,

In the midst of life we are in death.

Children of George & Betsey M. Lam-
son.

George Henrt/, infant son of Capt.
L. H. & A. E. Layfield. died Nov. q,
1852.

In Memory of
CajH. Agur Tomlinson Leivis,

who died March 12, 1815, Aged 38
Years.

Peace to his ashes, and eternal rest to his
departed spirit.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
Collo. Edmond Leivis, Who De-
parted this life May i4">, 1757, in ye
78 Year of his Age.
Calm he commits his flesh to Dust,
'Till the last trumpet wakes the Just,
And he immortalized shall Rise
To mansions far beyond the skies.

Here lyes Buried y« Body of
Mrs. HannaJi Leivis, wife to Colo.
Edmond Lewis, who Departed this
life July y"^ 13"^, 1756, in y° 75"" Year
of Her Age.

In Memory of
Daniel A. Lewis, son of Alpheus

& Phebe Lewis, who died March 31,
1831, aged II yrs. & i mo.

Sacred to the Memory of
Mr. David- Lewis, who departed
this Life the 13"' day of November,
1783, in the 74*'' Year of his Age.

3Ir. Eli Lewis, died Dec. 24, 1818,
Aged 80.

Mrs. Naomi Leivis, wife of Mr.

Eli Lewis, died Feb. 3, 1814, aged 70

years.

Here lyes y« Body of
James Walker Lewis, Son of Mr.

Eli Lewis, who departed this life May

II, 1772, in y« s"* Year of his Age.

In Memory of
31 rs. Hannah Lewis, Wife of
Capt. James Lewis, Who died July 2'',
1756, Aged 75 Years.

3Ir. Isaac L^ewis, died August 31,
1804, in the 70 Year of his Age.

342

History of Stratford.

In memory of 3 Children of Mr. James

& Mrs. Sarah Lewis.
James, died Sep. 12, 1777, in his s"'

Year.
David Bootll, died Sept. 22, 1777, in

his S'* Year.
Behecca, died Sep. 24, 1777, Aged 6
Months.

In Memory of
Capt. James Lewis, Who departed
this life Jan^ the 29*'', 1766, Aged 89
Years.

In Memory of
Mr. James Letvis, Who departed
this life August 13"^, 1779, Aged 39
Years.
Just as he arrived, to those scenes
Where pleasures seemed to flow,
Just as he tasted those sweet charmes
Death struck the fatal blow.

Here Lies intered
31 v. Joseph Letvis, who died July
3'i, A. D. 1756, ^t. 74.

Here lies the Body of

Mrs. Phebe Leivis, wife of Mr. Jo-
seph Lewis, who died Septr. y® 11,
1753, Aged 62 Years.

In Memory of

J*hebe Letvis, Daut^ of Mr. David &
Mrs. Phebe Lewis, who died October
v"^ 2"^, A. D. 1764, Aged 9 years.

PheneasS Phehe, Son & Daughter
of Mr. David & Mrs. Phebe Lewis,
died Sept. y" 7, 1751. Pheneas in the
17"" Year of his Age: Phebe aged 3
Years.

Col. Philo Leivis, departed this life
Nov. 7, 1836, Aged 78 years & 3 Mo.

3Lrs. CJiaritij Letvis, wife of Col.
Philo Lewis, died Dec. 21, 1842, aged
82 Years.

In Memory of

Capt. Nathl. Sherman Letvis,
who died Feb. 14, 1812, aged 82.

3Iarif, Wife of Capt. N. S. Lewis,
died April 10, 1819, age 83.

Francis, their daughter, died July i,
1804, aged 37.

James, son of James & Hannah Lock-
wood, Died Febr. 21, 1818, Aged 10
yrs. & 9 ds.

Here lies the Body of

Mr. Nehe^niah Loring, Aged 44
Years, 6 Mo. & 29 Ds. Departed
this Life January the g"', 1730-31.
Here lyes the Body of

3Irs. Elizabeth. Loring, wife of
Mr. Nehemiah Loring, Aged 57
Years, i m. & 6 days, Died July 20,
1797.

In Memory of
Capt. Phinehas Lovejoy, Jtmr,

who departed this life Sept. 26, 1803,

JEi. 41.
Death like an overflowing stream.
Sweeps us away, our life's a dream.
An empty tale : a morning flower.
Cut down and withered in and hour.

In Memory of
Anna Moberts Lynus, Daughter
of Mr. Robert & Mrs. Mary Linus,
who departed this Life May 5"*, 1786,
Aged I }-ear 6 months & 18 days.

Henry Lundy, died June 14, 1879,

Aged 70.
Charlotte, wife of Henry Lundy, died
Nov. 17, 1857. Aged 50.
And now she lies with folded hands

In an untroubled sleep ;
With tearless eyes and peaceful heart,
Where none can make her weep.

In Memory of
Elijah, 3Iarshall, who died May 3,
1839, aged 57.

In Memory of
Lticy, wife of Elijah Marshall, who
died April i, 1840, aged 56.
Here lieth the Body of
3Lr. Paul 3Iarerich, who Departed
this Life Janry. the 20''', Anno Dom
1745-6 in the 52°'* year of his age.

In Memory of
Ami, wife of John McEwen, who died
Dec. 4, 1824, Aged 72 Years.

In Memory of

John 3IcEwen,a Revolutionary sol-
dier who died Sept. 29, 1842, aged 98
years.

In Memory of

Nanctf 3IcEtven. who departed this
life Feb. 7, 1831, ^ 45.

William McEtv en. Died Aug. 18,
1851, JE. 40.

William 3IcEtven, Died Nov. lo,
1871, Aged 96.

In Memory of
3Iary 3IcEiven, wife of William

McEwen, who died Dec. 28, 1842,

Aged 62 Yrs.
Sarah 3Iaria, Daughter of William

& Mary McEwen, died Nov. 11, 1836,

JE. 18 yrs. & 8 mo.
Two children of Mr. Aaron & Mrs.

Chloe Nichols,
Proctor Thomas, died August 26,

I Si 5, aged 2 yrs. & 8 mo.
Isabella, died August 30, 1815, aged

II months.

Inscriptions in the Episcopal Burying-place.

343

[The following 23 inscriptions are found in tiie
NicoU's plot.]
[Monument.]
Sacred to the Memory of
Francis IF. Xicoll, son of the late
Gen. Matthias Nicoll, who died Sept.
24, 1842. aged 57 years.
It may be truly said of him that he was a
father to the fatherless, a friend to the widow,
kind and benevolent to the poor.

This stone is erected by his surviving brother
and sisters, who live to mourn his loss.

Our 3Iother's Grave.

[MoNOMENT — "West side.]

Genl. 3Iutthi as Nicoll. Born ii"»

October, 175S, Died 11*^ February,
1830.

At Peace with his God,
Himself and the world,
He died lamented,
By all who knew him.
[South side.]
Sarah, Relict of Genl. Matthias
Nicoll, Deed. Jan. 6, 1848, Aged 90
Years.

The righteous shall be had in everlasting
remembrance.
[East side.]
Died at Canton, in China, on the first
day of November, 1829, where his
remains are interred,
George Hobert Doivdall, Son-in-
law of Genl. Matthias Nicoll, in the
47*"^ year of his age.

Commander of the ship Ajax. In his profes-
sion he was inferior to none. And in the dis-
charge of all Social duties as Husband, Father,
Friend and Citizen, few excelled him.

[North side.]
Also Died at Canton, on the 27"^ of
October, 1829, in the 31^' year of his
age,
Edtvard Nicoll, First officer of the
ship Ajax, And Son of Genl. Mat-
thias Nicoll.
He was beloved by all who knew him.
In Memory of
Mart/ Magalene Xicoll Clinch,
died Sept. 3, 1822, aged 9 months and
II days.
David JPoore, Died April 5, 1853,
^E. 70.

In Memory of
Louisa, the wife of David Poore and
daughter of General Matthias Nicoll,
who departed this life January 19"',
1832 ; Aged 34 Years.
She sleeps but to wake at the call of her God.

In Memory of

Samuel Charles Nicoll, Infant son
of David & Louisa Poore, who de-
parted this life June 5, 1833, Aged 17
Months and 11 days.

"I shall go to him, but he shall not return to

me." 2 Samuel, 12 C, 25 V.

[MONUMKNT.]

Francis Holland.

Fanny.

Children of J. L. & A. F. Hubbard.

Anna G. Chevallie, wife of the late
Henry Chevallie, of Richmond, Va.
Died June 8, 1870.

Edward H. Turic, died March 4,
1841, aged 16 yrs.

In Memory of

Catharine Jones, late wife of David
Jones, of New York, Merchant, who
departed this life in this town on the
21''* day of April. 1798, in the 63 year
of her Age.
Beloved while living by all her Relatives and

acquaintance, and much lamented by them at

her death.

Elizabeth JI., Daughter of the late
A. H. Turk, died Jan. 9, 1847, JE
17 yrs.
In death as well as in life she was truly a

lovely character, a flower unfaded yet prepared

to die.

Sacred to the Memory of
David Jones, late of New York,
Merchant, A Man who to the keenest
Sensibility to the Distresses of others,
possessed the greatest Fortitude in
supporting his own.

Placed in the most trying Situa-
tions of life no murmur at the Dis-
pensations of Providence passed his
Lips. After a Life of strict Integrity,
he met Death with that cheerful Res-
ignation which true Christianity alone
can inspire.

He died at this place on the ii"*
day of October, 1806, in the 73'^ Year
of his Age.

Elizah, Widow of Geo. R. Dowdall,

Died Sept. 7, 1851, J£ 65.
A devoted Mother, a kind friend, a sincere
Christian. Her record is on high.

[MONU.MENT.]

Samuel C. Xicoll, Born May 13,

1782. Died May i, 1.S50.

In full communion with the Christian Church,
he died lamented as he had lived beloved.

Elvira Xicoll, wife of Samuel C.
Nicoll, and daughter of Col. Aaron
Benjamin, Born Feb. 8, 1794, Died

April 9, 1S51.

As wife, daughter, sister, woman, a light and
blessing in our pathway which even death can-
not extinguish, She yet lives in our Memory
and love.

344

History of Stratford.

Violetta SeaJmvi/ Gore, Widow of
Richard Gore, and eldest daughter of
the late Genl. Matthias Nicoll, Born
in Stratford, 29"^ December, 1783 ;
Died in New York, 5"^ November,

1854.

0 may I find in death

A hiding place with God,

Secure from woe and sin till called

To share his blessed abode.

Elizabeth Nicoll, Widow of John
Springs, of South Carolina, and
daughter of the late Genl. Matthias
Nicoll, of Stratford, Born Sept. 21,
1800, Deed, in Petersburgh, Va.,
March 13, 1872.

"I know that my Redeemer liveth, and that
He shall Stand at the latter day upon the Earth,
and though after my skin worms destroy this
body, yet in my flesh shall I see God."

Sacred to the Memory of
3Iaria Nicoll, wife of Aha&uerus
Turk, deceased : Born Mar. 30, 1791,
Died April 17, 1882.

In Memory of
Isaac Nichols, who died May 22,
A. D. 1776, in the 41'' Year of his
Age.

In Memory of
3Irs. Sarah Nichols, Relict of Mr.
Isaac Nichols, who died Oct. 5, 1815,
Aged 81 years.

Here lies Buried the Body of
TheopMUis Nichols, Esqr., Who
departed this Life April the 1^^, 1774,
Aged 71 Years.

Here lies Buried the Body of
Sarah Nichols, Wife to Theophilus
Nichols, Esqr., Who departed this
Life sept, the 26"\ 1769, in the 68">
Year of Her Age.

Here Lyes Buried the Body of
3Irs. 3Iehetable Nichols, Wife of
Theophilus Nichols, Esq. Who died
September ye 20''', 1771, Aged 52
Years.

[Tablet.]
In Memory of
3Irs. Abigail Norris, Wife of Rob-
ert Norris, who departed this life
August ig'*", 1805, aged 26 Years, 2
Months & 9 Days.

1 shall be satisfied When I awake with thy
likeness.

In Memory of

Betsey, wife of Capi. Samuel Peck,

who died Jan. 4, 1835, /E 54 yrs.

In Memory of

(Japt. Samuel Peck, who died

Aug. II. 1837, M. 59 yrs.

In Memory of
Delia, dau. of Capt. Samuel Peck, who

died March 21, 1835, Aged 14 Years

and 5 Months.
Setiry, son of Capt. Samuel & Betsey

Peck, died May 7, 1826, aged 9 years.
Here lyes Buried y'^ Body of
Mr. Jonathan Pitman, Who died

December ist, 1731, Aged 91 Years.
David, the Son of Mr. Peter & Mrs,

Mary Pixlee, Died Sept. the 18, 1751,

in y" 9 year of his age.

Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.
Enieline A., Daughter of Samuel &

Eliza Plumb, died Jan. 8, 1851, M.

20 yrs.

The Choir of Christ Church erect this stone
to the memory of their late associate.

Frederich F. Plumb, Son of Sam-
uel & Eliza Plumb, died Feb. 14,
1862, JE. 19.

In Memory of
Lucins Plumb, who died June 7,
1862, JE. 70.

Rest in Peace.

Our Mother.
Julia, wife of Lucius Plumb, died
Oct. 12, 1857, JE. 55 yrs. & 6 Mo.
"Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord."

In Memory of
3Iiss 3Iarif Porter, who died Jan.
7, 1829, Aged 28 years.

Here lies Interr'd the Bod}' of
3Ir. John Prijn, late of Antigua,
who Departed this Life November the
23'''^, 1751, Aged 51 Years.
Harriet E., Relict of James E. Rich-
ardson, Died Oct. 5, 1858, In the ^V^
year of her age.
John Nisbit, son of James E. & Har-
riet E. Richardson, died Oct. 31, 1854,
JE. 8 yrs. & 9 mo.
James, son of Patrick & Catharine
Riley, Died Oct. 25, 1S45 : aged 13
Months,

In Memory of
Obed Roberts, who died Dec. i, 1S24:

Aged 72.
Alfred, son of John & Mary Roose-
velt, Died Sept. 27, 1810, aged 71
years.

In Memory of
John Poosevelf, who died Nov. 14,
1810, aged 57 years.

In Memory of
Aim Poosevelt, w\ic oi ]ohT\ Roose-
velt, who died Feb. 15, 1834 : JE 78.

Inscriptions in the Episcopal Burying-place.

345

Here rests in Peace the bod)' of
EliZdhefh, wife of Jacob June, who
departed this life tlie 2'' day of Sep-
tember, A. D. 1799, of the then pre-
vailing Epidemic: Aged 39 years,
6 mo. and 26 days.

To her Memory tfiis token of affectionate
esteem is dedicated by her surviving partner.
Of lovely form, kind and sincere.
Was she that now reposes here.
In her each milder virtue met,
Virtues that I can never forget,
Hut patiently those joys resign,
Which heaven decreed no longer mine.

3I((l't/ Wells, the wife of John Roose-
velt', died March i, 1863, JE. 82 Years.

In Memory of
]\Iciry E., daughter of John & Mary
Roosevelt, who died March g, 1839,
aged 24 years.

In Memory of
Ann Satterly, who died June 2,
1828, in the 32 year of her age.

Here lies the Body of
3Ii'. Thomas Salmon, who was

born in Chippenham, in England,
was a worthy member of y" Church
of England here, & y" ingenious
.'Architect of the Church, & Departed
this Life Janv. 20"^, 1749-50, in y" S7^^
year of his age.

Here lies y" Body of
Mrs. Sarah Salmon, the wife of

Mr. Thos. Salmon, who departed this

life March y« 15"^, 1750, aged 55

Years.
Charles Scott, died Dec. 21, 1827,

^.13-

Here lies the Body of
Mr. Ehenezer Sherman, Junr.,

who departed this life January 14"',

A. D. 1764, in the 44"' Year of His

Age.

Here lyes Buried y" Body of
Mrs. 3Iarij Sherman, Wife to Mr.
Ebenezer Sherman, Who Departed
this Life March y" 30"', A. D. 1752,
Aged 35 years & 4 mo.

In Memory of
Mrs. Elizabeth Sherman, Wife to
Mr. Timothy Sherman: who died
December 10*'^, 1766, in y" 52'' Year
of Her Age.

In Memory of
Mrs. Naomi Sherman, Wife to
Mr. Timothy Sherman, who departed
this life Jany. 27"', 1797, In the 85'^
Year of her Age.

William E., ^on of lohn & Mariah
Sherman, Died April 7, 1S33, /E 2 yrs.
& 3 mo.

In Memory of
Caj)it. John Silhi/, who died May i,
1825, aged 55 years.

In Memory of
Mrs. Betsei/ Silht/, wife of Mr. John

Silbey, who died Feb. 4, 1822, aged 44

years & 9 months.

This Stone is erected by John Silby,

Jr., In Memory of his Father,
3Ir. John Silby, who died Deer.

25th, iSoo.

Everett Davis, Son of Isaac & Sarah
C. Sniffin, Died Jan. 14, 1S43, Aged
8 mo.

John Stratton, Died Nov. 22, 1850,

^.79-
Charity, Wife of John Stratton, Died
Nov. 15, 1871, Aged 89.

In Memory of

Elizabeth Thatcher, who died
April 10, 1S17, /E. 70 yrs.
In Memory of 2 Children of Mr. Jo-
seph & Mrs. Mary Thompson, viz:

Isaac, who died Octr. I7">, 1776, aged
3 years, 4 months & 18 days, & also

Joel, who died October 17 16, aged i
Year.

In Memory of

3Ir. Joseph Thomjison, Junr.,
who departed this Life Octr. 17, A. D,
1776, Aged 29 years & 19 days.

3Irs. Temperance Thompson,
Wife of Mr. Joseph Thompson, De-
parted this Life Jany 8"', 1790, In
the 70 Year of her Age.

In Memory of
3Irs. Esther, relict of Doct. Abraham

Tomlinson, who died Dec. 28, 1831,

aged 66 yrs. & 4 mo.
John, Son of W'". & Diana Vance,

died Mar. 18, 1828, ^t. 2 yrs.
Here lies Intered the Body of
3Ir. Peter Viou, who Departed this

life November the 11*'', 1751. i" ^^^

25* year of his age.
3Iiss Frances Waldecker, died

Sept. 22. 1813, aged 67 years.
3Iiss Sarah Waldecker, died

April 10, 1812, aged 58 years.
In Memory of
James Walker, Esqr., Who de-
parted this Life June 9''', 1796. I" the

Si"- Year of his Age.

546

History of Stratford.

Mrs. Jerusha Walker, Relict of
James Walker, Esq'. Died July 8'^
1803, in the 87"^ year of her age.

In Memory of
Benjainin Wells, who died June 8,
1818, age 73 years.

In Memory of
Eli'Zaheth, wife of Benjamin Wells,
who died Oct. 29, 1822, aged 71 years.

In Memory of
Curtiss tf. Wells, who died June 4,

1847, JE. 77 years.

Utith Haivley, the wife of Curtiss J.
Wells, died "April 24, 1863, M. 86
Years.

In Memory of
Legrand Wells, who died April 15,

1848, M. 84.

In Memory of

Phehe, wife of Legrand Wells, who

died Oct. 23, 1810, Aged 76 Years.

In Memory of Two Children of Le-

Grand & Cate Wells,
Siisana, died Oct. 8'^, 1803, aged 9

years.
Martha Carline, died August 29"^,

1803, aged 2 Years.

In Memory of
Leivis Wells, 3rd, who died April
y^, 1841, JE. 41.

fTulia, Wife of Lewis Wells, y^, Died
Jan. 20, 1850, JE. 50.

Menben Wells, died June 12, 1859,
JE. 85.

In Memory of
Samuel W. Wells, who died June

11, 1822, Aged 54.

Also
Mary E. Wells, Wife of Samuel W.

Wells, died July i, 1850, aged 81.
Cliarles S. Whiting, Died Nov. 7,

1845, JE. 65.
Sally, his wife, Died Nov. 20, 1842,

JE. 62.
Curtis (T. Whiting, Died June 14,

1854, JE. 76 yrs,
Fanny ilfort, Wife of Curtis J. Whit-
ing, Died Aug. 22, 1872, JE. 80 Yrs.,

6 Mo.
Catharine A., Daughter of Curtis

]. & Fannie M. Whiting, Died Aug.

12, 1S74. JE. 65 Yrs., 6 Mo.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
3Irs. Sarah Wilcox, Wife to Mr.
Elisha Wilcox, who died Feb. 10*'',
1788, in the 43'' Year of her Age.

Sacred to the Memory of
Mrs. Sarah Ann, the wife of Mr.
Daniel Worden, of Goshen, N. Y.,
who died August 4, 1825, aged 32.
Here lyes Buried y* Body of
Capt. Ahram Wooster, Died Sept.
y® I, 1741 (?), In y'^ 70 Year of his
Age.

[Tablet.]
Sacred to the Memory of
ColoneUosej)7i Wooster, who died
December 30"^, 1791, Aged 89 Years.
Also of
3Irs. Lucy Wooster, Wife of Colo-
nel Joseph Wooster, who died Octo-
ber iS'"^, 1760, Aged 32 Years.
And I heard a voice from Heaven saying un-
to me, Write Blessed are the dead who die in
in the Lord.

CHAPTER XIV.

ECCLESIASTICAL PROGRESS.

N the great excitement and religious con-
fii^troversy following Whitefield's visit to
Stratford, considerable changes occurred,
some in favor of, and others against, the
prosperity of the place. Those things
which resulted in renewed religious activity
by which two new houses of worship were
erected, were in favor, and those which
caused the removal from the town of a num-
ber of first-class citizens were against the
best interests of the place.

Whitefield's stay in Stratford extended
to a few hours only. He preached in New
Haven on Sunday, and on Monday morn-
ing came to Stratford, preached at the
meeting-house, probably outside, in the
open air; dined with the Rev. Mr. Gold, then went to Fair-
field, where he preached in the afternoon of the same day.

The idea of charging VVhitefield with extravagancies
and turning " the world upside down," in one sermon or in
a few hours, is too simple, unless there was something more
than human in his preaching, in which case it would be still
more dishonorable to make the charge. There had been an
unusual revival of religious interest in New England for sev^-
eral years, and Whitefield's preaching was in accord with
that revival. After Mr. Whitefield's departure, unlettered,
and unlearned men, as well as some who were learned, made
vastly more trouble by extravagancies and unwise proceed-
ings than Whitefield ever countenanced, or probably ever
dreamed of.

There was great excitement in Stratford, unquestionably,
and the one thought or doctrine that produced it, was the

348

History of Stratford.

question of a decided, definite, clear understanding, as to a
personal experience, or " change of heart" in religious things.
This was an old orthodox doctrine, then revived, especially
in the Calvinistic form. In the Congregational churches
some accepted this doctrine as the only assurance of heaven,
while others held more to the efficiency of a careful, dutiful
life of obedience to, and support of, Bible teachings, to secure
the same end. Mr. Gold held to the former — which view has
been termed in Congregational churches, as well as others,
for over one hundred years, the evangelical— and some of Mr.
Gold's leading men held to the latter; and hence, desired and
finally secured Mr. Gold's dismission.

In the midst of this controversy and excitement, which
lasted ten years, the Rev. Richardson Miner of Unity, an
acceptable Congregational minister, and a much esteemed
practising physician, resigned his pastorate and joined the
Church of England, in 1744. Several families in Stratford
had made a like change previous to this, and some followed.
The result is seen in the officers of the Episcopal Church.

From 1725, until 1737 or 8, a few men had served in those
offices, so far as the records show; namely, John Benjamin,
John Kee, Nehemiah Loring and Richard Rogers. In 1739,
a much longer list is recorded,' indicating, either the increase

For Stratford jJ°l^"^^"3amin

( Zachary Clarke.

17 D- . ( Joseph Shelton

For Ripton <■' ^

( Tohn Beardslev

ley.

' " Easter Monday, 1739. Church Wardens chosen and appointed to gather
the minister's rate and to give our account of it to the Commissary for the year
were :

^ William Smith.

Samuel French.

Samuel Blagge.

William Beach.

Joseph Brown.

Gershom Edwards.

Captain Hubbeil.

Ephraim Curtiss.

Lieutenant Fairchild.

Doctor Laborie.

Millar Frost.

Thomas Lattin.

Hugh Curland.

"The same day, Voted that we pay this year towards the support of our minis-
ter 4 pence farthing upon the pound of our Ratable Estate." In 1748 the Vestry
' Voted the same Rate to Dr. Johnson that the Dissenters pay to Mr. Gold."

Vestry -.

TJie Episcopal Church. 34Q

of numbers or a more complete organization and the keeping
of a full record.

In 1741, others appear, as: "Edmund Lewis, Esq., Mr.
Joseph Lewis, Mr. Jonathan Curtiss, Capt. James Lewis, Mr.
Ebenezer Hurd and Dr. William Russell;" and in 1746,
Capt. Theophilus Nichols; all but Dr. Russell were of the
old Stratford families.

Several of these men had been members in full commun-
ion in the Congregational Church from fifteen to twenty
years — Edmund Lewis, Esq., and Capt. James Lewis, from
fifteen to eighteen, and Capt. Theophilus Nichols and his wife
over twenty years.

Hence, it appears that a number of persons of the old
way of thinking or the conservative element, who were op-
posed to the New Light movement, left the Congregational
and joined the Episcopal Church, while Mr. Gold continued
to preach, and when he was dismissed in 1752, a number of
leading men in favor of his preaching, removed from the par-
ish, to North Stratford, Ripton, New Haven; and others
went further — to Waterbury, Newtown and New Milford ;
thus affecting, decidedly, the strength and numbers of the old
church and society.

But the increased interest in religion, soon led to new
efforts to promote the cause, and hence, as has been recorded,
in a previous chapter, the Congregational people built them
a new house of worship in 1743, raising the money by a tax
on the property held by the members of the society.

The Episcopal Society built a house also in 1743 ; but on
the principle of stock ownership, and not by a public tax ; and
so far as the author of this history has learned, it was the first
house of worship built on this plan in this region of country.

The subscription^ to secure the money to build this house

^ " We whose names are hereunto subscribed being convinced thai it is our duty
to contribute what we are able towards building a Church for y" Honour and
Glory of God in this town to be set apart for his worship and service according to
the excellent method of the Church of England Do hereby cheerfully and seriously
devote to God the following sums (in the old tenor) annexed to our several names
to be employed for the promoting of that pious undertaking.

Stratford February y^ 2^, 1742-3.

350

History of Stratford.

is dated in February, 1742-3, and gives the names, probably,
of nearly all the contributors at that time.

The money to build the church being secured, the next
great question was where to locate it. Two deeds for sites
were recorded; one, of a lot on Watch-house hill, and the
other near that of the present church, in both of which it is

Sm. Johnson, a bell, ;r^300

Wm. Beach 250

Wm. Russell 5

Abm. Savage 5

Charles Curtiss 30

Rich*^ Salmon 3

Israel Curtiss - 4

Joseph Lewis, Jr 2

Samuel Thompson 2

Peter Foot - 15

Ephraim Fairchild 10

John Barly _ 5

Jeremiah French 10

George Tyley 10

Joseph Lamson 2

John Brooks 5

Daniel Munson 3

By a person unknown 10

John Kiely ._ 2

David Lewis 20

Eliezer Newhall 20

Timo. Bontecou 15

Edmond Booth 10

David Brooks .„ 4

Ephraim Burrit 10

Ebenezer Sherman 5

Joseph Burdsey 12

Ebenezer Hurd 30

Josh. Foot 00

John Arnold ._ 00

James Beach 5

Wm. Lamson 40

Nehemiah Beardslee 7

Sam" Benjamin. 20

Wm Leese 5

Elnathan Peet 60

Nathan Peet 20

Edward Allen 25

Bemslee Peters ;^'*o 00 00

Sam" Preston 10 00 00

Sam" Folsom 12 00 00

Eph. Osburn _ 10 00 00

Edmond Lewis 70 00 00

Ephra"" Curtiss 50 00 00

James Lewis 30 00 00

Abel Burdsey 60 00 00

Daniel Hawley 40 00 00

Joseph Lewis 40 00 00

Ambrous Thompson 30 00 00

Gersh"" Edwards 50 00 00

John Benjamin 50 00 00

Joseph Browne 30 00 00

James Dunlop 40 00 00

Benjamin Peirce 8 00 00

Paul Maverick 10 00 00

Joseph Prince 20 00 00

Ebenezer Curtiss 15 00 00

Eliphelet Curtiss 60 00 00

Joseph Thompson 20 00 00

James Lewis, Jun _ 15 00 00

Sam" Jones 10 00 00

Tim" Sherman 35 00 00

Hew Curland 30000

Ephraim Hawley 15 00 00

Ephraim Lewis 15 00 00

David Fansher 5 00 00

Abra"' Blackman 6 00 00

James Frost 3 00 00

Tho' Stratton 4 02 00

Joseph Laine.- 5 00 00

Edmund Lewis 20 00 00

William Wells -.. - 10 00 00

Joseph Gorham 5 00 00

Daniel Foot 3 0° 00

Natt" Lamson 2 0000

William Beach 750 00 00

A true copy. John Benjamin, Clerk." .

Second Episcopal CJiurcJi. 351

stated that the purpose was to erect a church upon them, and
the latter one was retained and occupied, while the other was
sold.

Tradition says, as well as the Rev. Samuel Peters, that
there was much excitement about securing this site; that the
Congregationalists opposed the proposition of locating it on
the hill near the meeting-house. It is said, the site on the
hill was secured first and afterwards the one on Main street,
but the deeds are dated quite the reverse — the one on Main
street, April 16, 1743, and the one on the hill, May 24, 1743.

The building committee were as follows:

" February y® 2, 1742-3. Unanimously chosen by y*
members of the Church of England in Stratford Town a
committee to take care for y'^ building a new church in
Stratford.

Coll. Edmond Lewis. John Benjamin.

Capt. James Lewis. Mr. Ambrose Thompson.

Mr. Ephraim Curtiss. Capt. Gershom Edwards.

Mr. Daniel Hawley. Mr. Joseph Lewis.

Mr. Joseph Brown. Mr. Thomas Lattin.

July, 1744. Voted that Theo". Nickols, Esqr., also be one
ot the committee, and Mr. Wm. Lamson.

•' Voted the same time that whatsoever shall be done by
the Church Wardens for y^ time being, and any five of the
Com*, shall be held valid by y® whole community."

The seating of the church was arranged according to the
following: " It was unanimously voted y^ ist day of Jan-
uary, 1744-5, that the proprietors of y^ church should chuse
their ground for their pews according to what they have
given towards building the same."

The property was secured to the church by the following:

"January ye 14, 1744-5. ^t was unanimously voted by
y*" minister and Church Wardens and committee of y® new
church in Stratford, called Christ'^ Church, that if any per-
sons that have or ever hereafter shall have Rights in pews in
sd. Church, that if they shall leave sd. Church, they and their
heirs; that in that case y^ Rights they have in said Church
shall be Resigned for the Benefit of sd. Church : to be dis-

Titherton and
Wm. Smith.

5rt

= 5 ■=

E.:s

call]
■J O-

^Q w

Timo.
Bountecou.

I~l

fl) n-

F-^

►ti

Vm. Smith.

David Lewis.

Mr. French.

Richd.

Ephm.

Blackleach.

Burrit.

Both Blaggs.

Capt. Hubbil.

M. Porter.

Ebenr. Hurd.

Eliph.

Curtiss.

Mr. Newhall.

Mr. Joseph

Charles

Lewis.

Curtiss.

Benjm. Lewis

Jerh. French.

Abrm.

Thomas

Savage.

Lattin.

Mrs. Tree.

Mr. Pryn.

Samuel

Mr. Joseph

Preston.

Shelton.

Ebenr.

Capt. Jos.

Sherman.

Wooster.

John Hurd.

Thos.

Stratton.

Thos. Lake.

Thos.Daskem

Benj. Pierce.

Ricd. Burton.

James
Frost.

Doct.
Benjm.
Warner,

Wm. Beach.

Minister's
Pew.

Ambs.

Thompson.

Doct.

Munson.

Capt.

Coldwell.

Coll. Lewis

and
Capt. Lewis.

Mr. Abel and

Joseph

Burdsey,

Paul

Maverick.

Capt. Joseph
Prince.

Mrs. Series.

Rev. Dr.

S. Johnson.

John

Benjamin.

Capt.

Gershom
Edwards.

Timothy

Sherman.

Samll.

Benjamin.

Peter Foot.

Samuel

Folsom.

Jos.

Thompson.

Neh.

Beardslee.

Jos. Nichols.

Thos. Salmon

Mrs. Loring
and familj'.

C. Burroughs
Stephen Frost

Abraham
Patterson.

William

Watkins.

Samuel

Fairchild.

Mrs.

Laborie.

Benjm.
Arnold.

Mrs.
Whitnee.

re c _^J

•1

.•"

K i?

O D

o3 M
^ g. re

Capt. Theos.
Nickols.

Pews and occupants in the Episcopal Church, Stratford, in 1745.

Second Episcopal Church. 353

posed of as y^ minister, Church Wardens and vestry then in
being shall think most for the advantage of the same Church."

Some of the material for this church may have been,
brought from England, but it was only a small proportion
if any (the pulpit, and perhaps the chancel ornaments),
as the Warden's record book now shows. A credit to Colonel
Edmund Lewis stands: "about 12 loads of timber got in his
land, 34 trees, ^^03-08." Lieut. Joseph Wooster furnished in
" July, 1743, 12,000 feet of pine siding at ten pounds per thous-
and, and 2,000 feet of sash plank at ^^14 per thousand ; 244
feet of pine boards at 20 s. per thousand ; and " iron for y'=
spindle for y® weathercock." In August, 1744, Capt. James
Lewis is credited, by "John rending 3400 lath for the church,
^4-05 ;" and soon after to 1250 more lath ; which shows that
the edifice was not completed until the autumn of 1744.

Several items of credit on the account book show that
the workmen were engaged nine days in raising the frame of
this church ; and from many items recorded it is certain that
the amount of timber in it was very great.

The Rev. Samuel Peters, in connection with his account
of the Indian powwow on Stratford point, makes the follow-
ing record in reference to the building of this church, or the
one preceding it, for it is difificult to determine which he in-
tended :

" When the Episcopalians had collected timber for a
church, they found the devils had not left the town, but only
changed their habitations — had left the savages and entered
into fanatics and wood. In the night before the church was
to be begun, the timber set up a country dance, skipping
about, and flying in the air, with as much agility and sul-
phurous stench as ever the devils had exhibited around the
camp of the Indian paw wawers. This alarming circumstance
would have ruined the credit of the church, had not the Epis-
copalians ventured to look into the phenomenon, and found
the timber to have been bored with augurs, charged with gun
powder, and fired off by matches :— a discovery, however, of
bad consequence in one respect— it has prevented the annal-
ists of New England from publishing this among the rest of
their miracles."'

* History of Connecticut by the Rev. Samuel Peters.

354 History of Stratford.

This sketch, with many others in Mr, Peters' book, might
easily be taken for a moderately good burlesque but for the
fact that some historians quote the book seriously as authentic
history.

The following record concerning the clock is of interest,
although it is unfortunate that they did not write more par-
ticulars about it :

"An agreement made this 25th day of Feb'', 1750-51, be-
tween the Church Wardens of Christ Church in Stratford, and
John Davis, clock maker, a stranger, and is as followeth :

" That the said Davis is to keep the clock of said church
in good repair for two years from the date hereof and to have
for his labour five pounds for each year, provided the said
clock goes well the said time ; if not, he is to have nothing
for his labor, and the first five pounds to be paid at the end
of the first year, and the other five pounds at the second year ;
and that the Church Wardens are not to be put to more
trouble about paying the money than to pay it either in Strat-
ford or Fairfield ; and to be paid in old tenor money."

Two full years were occupied, apparently, in building
and finishing this church edifice; for much, if not all the
lathing and plastering were done in the summer of 1744, and
the regulations for seating the church were not made until
January, 1744-5. The work for obtaining lime, is indicated
b}' charges for drawing loads of wood for burning loads of
shells, and was no small item in the finishing of such an edifice.

When the church was completed and the clock placed in
the tower, there was one thing lacking, the privation of which
they endured until the beginning of the 3'ear 1756, when they
undertook the enterprise of securing an organ for their house
of worship. A subscription* was raised for annual pa3^ments

"Stratford, February 16*'^, 1756.
^ " The following proposals for the purchase of an organ for the use of Christ
Church in this town are oflFered by Mr. Gilbert Deblois of Boston, Merchant.
"That the price of the said organ is to be fixed at Sixty pounds sterling.
"That the time allowed for the payment of the said sum be six years from the
time of its being delivered, and this to be made in the six equal payments of ten
pounds sterling per annum, without any demand of interest. That the said organ
be delivered at Stratford by the last of April next, if it can be completed by that

Second Episcopal Church.

355

during six successive years, at ten pound a year, and by it
the instrument was obtained, and was in its place in the
"organ loft," March 27, 1758, when the officers of the church
appointed Mr. John Benjamin, organist, and from that time
he was yearl}^ elected by the same authority to the same office
until 1773 ; serving the church in that capacity sixteen years,

time and there should be a convenient opportunity for shipping it. That the said
Mr. Gilbert Doblois do take upon himself all the risque in transporting the s'*
organ round from Boston to Stratford.

"We the subscribers do hereby accept the above mentioned proposals, and
do hereby oblige ourselves and our heirs to the just payment of the respective
sums yearl}' which are with our names herein expressed, to continue during the
term of the six next succeeding years.

" Witness our hands. The money to be collected above, we also agree to pay
into the hands of Mr. John Benjamin.

Lawful INIoney.
Edmund Lewis two dollars and a

half -- - £o-iS

David Lewis five dollars a year — i-io
David Brooks three dollars a year_o-i8
James Willoughby one dollar a yearo- 6
Nathaniel Curtis of N. Stratford one

dollar pr. year o- 6

Charles Curtis two dollars pr. 3'earo-i2
Jere Judson Curtiss two dollars pr.

year 0-12

W'" Samuel Johnson 20/ per ann..i-oo
John Benjamin twelve shillings pr.

year . 0-12

Gershom Edwards one dollar and

half --- o- 9

Madam Beach a sett of Curtains

and fringes for the Organ loft —
Edward Winslow two dollars pr.

annum. - 0-12

Joseph Lewis two dollars pr. annum 0-12
Joseph Lewis, Jr. one dollar pr.

annum o- 6

Watman Duncan one dollar pr.

annum o- 6

Timothy Sherman three dollars pr.

annum 0-18

Joseph Nickols three dollars pr.

annum 0-18

Lawful Money,

Andrew Hurd one dollar pr. an-
num ^o- 6

Alexander Zuill _ .0- 8

Abijah Beach twenty shillings pr.
annum i-oo

John Backus one and a half dollars
pr. annum. o- 9

John Robertson three dollars pr.
annum... 0-18

Abraham Patterson one dollar pr.
3-ear o- 6

Abel Beach four dollars pr. annum i- 4

Samuel Jones two dollars pr. an-
num 0-12

LeGrand Cannon two dollars and
half- 0-12*

Edward Hawley one dollar and half
pr. annum o- 9

Theophilus Niculls three dollars
pr. j-ear 0-18

Edmund Burritt half a dollar 0-03

Ambrose Thompson two dollars pr.
annum 0-12

Edward Allen two dollars pr. an-
num 0-I2

Harpin Jr. one dollar pr. an-
num - 0-6

Jean Harpin two dollars 0-12

* This is so carried out on the record.

356 History of Stratford.

and perhaps several years longer, since the records make no
mention of an organist from 1773 to 1779, when Capt. George
Benjamin is appointed to that service. So far as seen, no
mention is made of remuneration to the organist until 1786.
In 1780 Philip Benjamin was appointed organist; and in
1783, Asa Benjamin was elected to that place. In 1786 they
voted to give the organist twenty dollars per year for his
services.

On the 8th of July, 1744, the new church was opened
with a sermon by Dr. Johnson, although it was not then
plastered, and probably the pews were not then made.

Ten years he preached in this church, seeing large and
encouraging results from his own labors and those of his
brethren, and then he accepted the presidency of the college
at New York. He neither resigned his parish at Stratford
nor removed his family. The parish continued to raise his
salary and when he could not hold service with them he
secured one to do it. After some years this course secured
the following entry in the Warden's record book:

" Stratford April 8, 1765.
" To prevent misunderstanding what I propose with
regard to the money rates is this; not to take any of it to
myself but after crossing out the names of such as I think
subjects of Charity, to order the Church wardens to see that
it be punctually collected and let out at interest and pre-
served to the sole purpose of establishing a fund towards the
better support of my successor excepting only so much as
from time to time shall be found needful to use in rewarding
any gentleman whom I shall need to call to assist me in cases
of infirmity. Samuel Johnson."

The Episcopal ChurcJi. \tj

Judging from the history of one hundred and forty years,
the sudden and rapid progress of the Episcopal Church in
Stratford, for about ten years, resulting in the completion of
a new Church about 1750, was of very great importance to
the success of that denomination in America. The accession
of a few prominent citizens of Stratford to this church added
greatly to the prominence of Dr. Johnson and his people in
the Colonies, and the more than ordinary elegance of the new
church edifice contributed also to the same result.

Dr. Johnson seems to have appreciated these facts in his
letter to the Society, September 29, 1748, when he says:

" As to the Church in this town, it is in a flourishing con-
dition, one family having been added, and more looking for-
ward, and thirty-one have been baptized, and eight added to
the communion, since my last; our new Church is almost fin-
ished, in a very neat and elegant manner, the architecture
being allowed in som.e things to exceed anything done before
in New England. We have had some valuable contributions,
and my people have done as well as could be expected from
their circumstances, which are generally but slender; but
there is one of them who deserves to be mentioned in partic-
ular for his generosity, — Mr. Beach, brother of the Reverend
Mr. Beach, who, though he has a considerable family, has
contributed above three thousand pounds, our currency, to it
already, and is daily doing more, and designs to leave an
annuity, in perpetuuni, toward keeping it in repair.""

This edifice was not only remarkable in its architecture
and finish, but also returned a full compensation for all the
expense put upon it, in its durability, for it continued in use
until the present Church was opened on the 29th of July, 1858,
having served the purpose of its construction one hundred
and fourteen years.

The height of the progress of this Church, for many
years, seems to have been attained about the time Dr. John-
son became president of the College at New York. Having
attained a good degree of strength and numbers it did well
until the opening of the Revolutionary War, when all out-

^ History of the Church in Conn., i. 157.
24

358 History of Stratford.

ward circumstances were against its progress, yet it continued
its services probably until July, 1776,

Dr. Johnson remained the Rector until his decease in
1772 ; but his strength failed him somewhat so that an assistant
became necessary and was secured, as shown by the parish
vote, January 6, 1768, when "it was unanimously voted that
the Rev. Mr. Ebenezer Kneeland be an assistant to the Rev.
Docf Johnson our pastor, and also our missionary during his
natural life."

Hev. JEhene^er Kneeland was a graduate of Yale
Colleo'e in 1761 ; went to England for ordination three years
later, returned to this country and served for a time as
chaplain in a British regiment, and settled in Stratford ac-
cording to the above vote."

Upon the decease of Dr. Johnson, Mr. Kneeland suc-
ceeded to the Mission in Stratford, with all the emoluments
of his predecessor. The church wardens and others, in re-
questing his appointment, gave these reasons for claiming a
continuance of the Society's bounty :

" As Stratford is situate upon the great road from Boston
to New York, Mr. Kneeland must inevitably be at a greater
expense than any Missionary in the interior towns ; so that
from the decline of trade, the death and failure of several of
our principal members, from the increasing price of the
necessaries of life, the scarcity of money, and the extraordi-
nary expenses a missionary must be at here, we may truly say
we have not needed the assistance of the Venerable Society
more for fifteen years past than we do at present. . . . We
are now endeavoring to raise money to enlarge the glebe, but,
for the reasons before mentioned, fear we shall meet with
little success ; however, our best endeavors shall not be want-
ing to complete the same.'"

Mr. Kneeland served the parish until his decease, April

17. ^777-

Mev. Samuel Johnson, 2>.Z).,' was born in Guilford,

' History of the Church, i. 269.

8 Dr. Beardsley's History of the Church, i. 297.

9 This sketch of Dr. Johnson is taken largely from the Rev. Dr. E. E. Beards-
ley's "Life and Correspondence of Samuel Johnson."

Dr. Samuel JoJuison. 350

Connecticut, Oct. 14, 1696, and was the son of Dea. Samuel
and Mary (Sage) Johnson ; the grandson of Dea. William
Johnson, — and his wife Elizabeth Bushnell, — who came to
America when twelve years of age, with his father, Robert
Johnson, from Kingston upon Hull in Yorkshire, England,
and was at New Haven in 1641.

Samuel Johnson passed his preparatory studies largely by
private instruction and entered Yale College and was gradu-
ated in 1714, the college then being at Saybrook. He soon
after commenced teaching in his native town, where he re-
ceived, the next year, some of the Yale students and acted as
their tutor until the college was settled at New Haven, when
he was elected one of the tutors for that institution, and
served until the election of the Rev. Timothy Cutler to the
rectorship or presidency of that institution in 1719. March
20, 1720, he was ordained pastor of the Congregational Church
at West Haven, where he continued to serve two years when
he with three others — Mr. Timothy Cutler, Mr. Daniel
Brown, and Mr. James Wetmore declared themselves in favor
of the Episcopal Church. The same year they went to Eng-
land for ordination, and Mr. Johnson, after securing it, and
the honorary degree of Master of Arts bestowed by Oxford
University, returned to his native land under a commission
from the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in For-
eign Parts as a missionary to Stratford, where he arrived,
November 4, 1723.

Here he found a few communicants of his church and a
number of others in adjoining towns, looking to him for oc-
casional services, and that therefore the work was great and
laborious. This would have been true if there had been no
opposition to the introduction and success of another denom-
ination, but as it was, the difficulties and labor were great and
for a time almost insuruiountable and disheartening, but Mr.
Johnson was just the man for the place ; patient, not particu-
larly sensitive, not enthusiastic, but enduring in hope and
devoted to his work. He very soon saw evidences of suc-
cess, indeed no faithful pastor could labor under like circum-
stances without success, and therefore as he had been sent
here to establish and build a Church, and had a heart to do

360 History of Stratford.

it, at just that time and place, he was successful in a very
honorable degree. He had a decided literary and educa-
tional taste, and therefore not only found employment as a
minister, but also in efforts to lift up the masses in intellectual
attainments and enterprises. He continued to exert a helpful
influence at Yale College, which fact gave him a much larger
influence in the State than he otherwise could have had. He
found not only satisfaction in high educational attainments,
but a force or popular influence which always reacted for his
success as a minister, even though not put forth for that end,
but in a spirit of general benevolence.

On the 26th of September, 1725, he married Charity
Nicoll, widow of Benjamin NicoU, of Islip, L. I., and daugh-
ter of Col. Richard Floyd, of Brookhaven, L. 1. She had by
her former husband two sons and one daughter, and he at
once began to prepare the sons for Yale College, where they
were both graduated in 1734, and he doubtless had other
students much if not all of the time he could devote to such
work. There are evidences that his higher ambition and
tastes in learning won for him and his church much favor
even under the adverse circumstances in which he was
placed. The record given on page 322 of this book as to the
liberty to erect a school-house, indicates a public sentiment
to this effect.

Mr. Johnson's labors as a missionary extended to several
towns in the State, whenever occasion required. He visited
Ripton, Newtown, Reading, Fairfield, Stamford, and as far
east as New London, and occasionally Rhode Island. Besides
his labors in preaching and administering the sacraments, he
had of necessity, as the first and most prominent clergyman
in his church, a general oversight of the interests of that
body in Connecticut; in correspondence, in commending
men who went to England to receive orders, and in con-
sulting with companies in various places who desired to
organize churches and secure the services of ministers. All
these he attended with great fidelity and discretion, and his
labors were accompanied by a large degree of success, but
nothing very especially satisfactory until about 1740, when
the great religious interests and controversies of the New
Light movement occurred in the Congregational churches.

Dr. Samuel Johnson. 361

At the Rev. George Whitefield's first visit in Connecti-
cut, in 1740, there was but little opposition to him from the
Congregational people. Very many went to hear him preach,
and also many were very much stirred in their religious
thoughts on the subject of being saved through Jesus, the
only Saviour. And it is very certain there was great need of
such awakening to the subject. The Rev. Mr. Gold had
pursued a course of pastoral labor and preaching for eighteen
years that readily accepted Mr. Whitefield's preaching, and
many in his own congregation were awakened to, and greatly
interested in the subject.

Some way, how is not clearly revealed, Mr. Johnson and
Mr. Gold became involved in a controversial correspondence.
To illustrate the character of that controversy, and the
excited, deep, sincere feeling on both sides, and as revealing
some history of the times, a letter from each is here pro-
duced, with the assurance that it is no fault of the historian
that Mr. Johnson's letter is twice as long as Mr. Gold's.

Mr. Johnson's Letter.'"

"July 6, 1 741.

" Sir, — . . . 1 thought it my duty to write a few lines to
you, in the spirit of Christian meekness, on this subject.
And I assure you I am nothing exasperated at these hard
censures, much less will I return them upon you. No, Sir !
God forbid I should censure you as you censure me ! I have
not so learned Christ ! I will rather use the words of my
dear Saviour concerning those that censure so, and say,
* Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.'

" As to my having no business here, I will only sa}- that
to me it appears most evident that I have as much business
here at least as you have, — being appointed by a Society in
England incorporated by Royal Charter to provide ministers
for the Church people in America ; nor does his Majesty
allow of any establishment here, exclusive of the Church,
much less of anything that should preclude the Society he
has incorporated from providing and sending ministers to

'" These letters are taken from the " Life and Correspondence of Samuel
Johnson," by the Rev. E. E. Beardsley, D.D.

362 History of Stratford.

the Church people in these countries. And as to my being-
a robber of churches, I appeal to God and all his people, of
both denominations, whether 1 have ever uncharitably cen-
sured you, or said or done anything to disaffect or disunite
your people from you, as on many occasions I might have
done ; on the other hand, whether I have not on all occasions
put people upon making the kindest constructions possible
upon your proceedings, and whether there has ever been
anything in mine or my people's conduct that could be justly
interpreted to savor of spite or malice, though we have met
with much of it from some of our neighbors.

" If any of your people have left you, I appeal to them
whether it has been owing to any insinuations of mine, and
whether it has not been many times owing to your own
conducting otherwise than in prudence you might have
done, that they have been led to inquire, and upon inquiring
to conform to this Church. And pray why have not Dis-
senters here as much liberty to go to church, if they see
good reason for it (as they will soon do if they seriously
inquire), as Church people to go to meeting if they see fit,
as some have done, without my charging you so highly?
In short, all I have done which could be the occasion of any
people leaving you, has been to vindicate our best of
churches from injurious misrepresentations she has labored
under from you and others ; and this it was my bounden
dut}^ to do.

" And indeed 1 shall think myself obliged in conscience
to take yet more pains with Dissenters as well as Church
people than I have ever yet done, if I see them in danger of
being misled by doctrines so contrary to the very truth and
spirit of the Gospel as have lately been preached among us
up and down in this country.

"And as to my Church being open to all wickedness, I
appeal to God and all that know me and my proceedings
whether I have not as constantly borne witness against all
kinds of wickedness as you have, and been as far from pat-
ronizing it as you have been, and must think my people are
generally as serious and virtuous as yours. And lastly as to
your censuring me and my people as being unconverted,

Dr. Samuel JoJuison. 36?

etc., I will only beg you to consider whether you act the
truly Christian part in thus endeavoring to disaffect my
people towards my ministrations, and weaken and render
abortive my endeavors for the good of their souls, when I
know not that I have given you any occasion to judge me
unconverted, — much less to set me out in such a formidable
light to them. However, 1 leave these things, Sir, to your
serious consideration, and beg you will either take an oppor-
tunity to converse with me where and when you please, or
rather return me a few lines, wherein (as you have judged
me unconverted, etc.) I entreat you will plainly give me
your reasons why you think me so; for as bad as I am, I
hope I am open to conviction, and earnestly desirous not to
be mistaken in an affair of so great importance, and the
rather because I have not only my own, but many other
souls to answer for, whom 1 shall doubtless mislead if I am
misled myself. In compassion, therefore, to them and me,
pray be so kind as to give us your reasons why you think us
in such a deplorable condition.

" In hopes of which I remain. Sir, your real well-wisher
and humble servant S. J."

The immediate reply to the above letter is not at hand,
but another in reply to others is available. It is stated that
Mr. Gold denied having made the severe statements alleged
in the above letter.

Mr. Gold's Letter.

" Sir, — I don't wonder that a man is not afraid of sinning
that believes he has power in himself to repent whenever he
pleases, nor is it strange for one who dares to utter falsehoods
of others to be ready at any time to confirm them with the
solemnity of an oath, — especially since he adheres to a min-
ister whom he believes has power to wash him from all his
sins by a full and final absolution upon his saying he is sorry
for- them, etc.; and as for the pleas which you make for Col.
Lewis, and others that have broke away disorderly from our
Church, I think there's neither weight nor truth in them ;
nor do I believe such poor shifts will stand them nor you in
any stead in the awful day of account; and as for your

364 History of Stratford.

saying that as bad as )'Ou are yet you lie open to conviction,
— for my part I find no reason to think 3^ou do, seeing you
are so free and full in denying plain matters of fact ; and as
for your notion about charity from that I Cor. xiii., my
opinion is that a man ma_y abound with love to God and
man, and yet bear testimony against disorderly walkers,
without being in the least guilty of the want of charity
towards them. What! must a man be judged uncharitable
because he don't think well nor uphold the willful miscar-
riages and evil doings of others? This is surely a perverse
interpretation of the Apostle's meaning. I don't think it
worth my while to say anything further in the affair, and as
you began the controversy against rule or justice, so I hope
modesty will induce you to desist; and do assure you that if
you see cause to make any more replies, my purpose is,
without reading them, to put them under the pot among
my other thorns and there let one flame quench the matter.
These, sir, from your sincere friend and servant in all things
lawful and laudable. Hez. Gold."

"Stratford, July 21, 1741."

In February, 1743, Mr. Johnson and his people began the
proceedings which secured, within two years, a new church
edifice; and shortly alter commencing this work he learned
that in that same month the University of Oxford, England,
had conferred on him the degree of Doctor of Divinity.

The new Church was opened, though unfinished, by a
sermoii from Doctor Johnson, July 8, 1744, and he enjoyed the
privilege of preaching in it regularly ten years, when in 1754
he accepted the presidency of the New York College, al-
though he neither resigned his pastorate nor removed his
famil}^ from Stratford.

His wife Charity died June i, 1758, and while in the col-
lege in 1761, he married Mrs. Sarah, widow of William Beach
of Stratford. She was the daughter of Capt. Joseph Hull, of
Derby, born in 1701, and was great aunt to Gen. William
Hull. She died of the small pox Feb. 9, 1763, in New York.
Soon after this Dr. Johnson returned to Stratford where he
had a home with his son Wm. Samuel until his decease, Jan.
6, 1772.

Biographical Sketches. 365

The interesting details of tiie ministerial, religious, and
literary life and character of Dr. Johnson are well portrayed
in his " Life and Correspondence," by the Rev. E. E. Beards-
ley, D.D., of New Haven, Conn., in a volume of 380 pages,
with a fine steel portrait.

In the history of the Colony and State of Connecticut,
he will ever hold a prominent place, and in that of the
Episcopal Church in America it would be ingratitude not
to accord him the honor of being its founder, and earliest
as well as most successful champion and builder.

Thomas Salmon, born in Chippenham, England, came
from London to Stratford, and married Sarah, daughter of
William Jeans, about 1719. He was an architect and super-
intended the building of the first Episcopal Church at Strat-
ford. The tradition in the family says, he brought the ceil-
ing, the sounding-board, the pulpit, and other ornamental
work in that Church with him from England." If this was
so, then it seems that there must have been some move-
ment or efforts in Stratford to build a Church in 171 8 or
1719, of which there is no record so far as known, or Mr.
Salmon was sent to England for them. His gravestone,
which, with that of his wife, is in the Episcopal burying-
place, says he was " a worthy member of the Church ot
England here, and the ingenius architect of the Church
and departed this life January 20, 1749-50, in the 57th year
of his age." From this it may be inferred that he was the
architect of the second Church, built in 1743, and if so he
was "an ingenius" and superior builder.

John Benjamin came to Stratford about 1726, and in
Jan. 1726-7, purchased "a certain messuage tenement and shop
.... at a place called Pond brook, and one-quarter of an acre
of land whereon the house and shop stand, the land being
' bounded all round with highways and common land.' " This
property he exchanged in 1736 with Richard Rogers of New
London, for a dwelling house near Stratford Ferry, and this
he exchanged with Josiah Curtiss for land and a dwelling
house and barn, " lying near the said Stratford Old Society's

" Giddings Family, by Mr. M. S. Giddings, 49.

366 History of Stratford.

meeting--house," and six acres of land " lying at a place called
Intact."

Mr. Benjamin at once united in the support of the Epis-
copal Church and his name is prominent among its officers
nearly to his decease, April 13, 1773, in the 73d year of his
age. His descendants are still prominent in the town. His
grandson Aaron entered the Revolutionary Army when quite
young, and served his country as a brave soldier and Colonel
through that war, and lived over forty years to enjoy the
honor and privileges of the national liberty secured by that
great conflict.

Col. John J^enjainiUf Jr., was a prominent citizen,
and served as organist in the Episcopal Church about sixteen
years, most of the time, apparently, without compensation.
He was prominent in sustaining the Revolutionary War,
serving some of the time in the army, and in some of the
most important committees and public positions at home dur-
ing the contest. He was captain of the train band or militia,
made Colonel of the same after the Revolution. It is said he
was a goldsmith and made the weather-cock still standing on
the Episcopal Church. He was town treasurer in 1777.

William Heachf son of Isaac, the son of John, the first
of the name in Stratford, was born in 1694, and died July
26, 175 1. H.e married Sarah, the daughter of Capt. Joseph
Hull in 1725. Her father belonged to one of the wealthiest
and most influential families in Derby. After the death of
Mr. Beach she married Dr. Samuel Johnson and died in New
York in 1763.

William Beach was the brother of the Rev. John Beach,
a Congregational and afterwards an Episcopal clergyman of
prominence, and he became a prominent citizen in this his
native town. His father, Isaac Beach, was a tailor by trade
and does not appear largely in the offices of the town or as a
land holder. He married Hannah, daughter of John Birdsey.,
Jr., in 1693, and died in 1750, in his 71st year.

William Beach joined the Episcopal Church not long
after his brother's ordination in that Church in 1732. In the
building of the second Episcopal house of worship he was
the largest contributor, and in that relation did a very impor-

Biographical Sketches. 367

tant and benevolent work. Dr. Johnson said he " contributed
above three thousand pounds, our currency ;" and altli()u<4;h
the Connecticut currency was at that time a great way below
par, yet the contribution was a very large one for those days;
and represents him as the foremost person in the town at that
time, in giving to such an enterprise, including the Congre-
gationalists, who built a meeting-house the same year.

Some extracts are here introduced from the ''Historical
Discourse, delivered in Christ Church, Stratford, Conn., on
the fifth Sunday in Lent, March 28th, 1855, by the Rev. John
A. Paddock, M.A., Rector."

This discourse was prepared with much care, research
and unbiassed fidelity to historic truth, and was a very honor-
able production."

" There is no record of the baptismal, or other offices
being performed here from the beginning of the Revolution
till after the close of the war," But there seems reason for

'- Mr. Paddock's discourse furnishes the following as to the first efforts of the
Episcopal people of Stratford to secure a minister.

" A petition from the parish for a clergyman, addressed to the Bishop of Lon-
don on the first of April, 1707, bears the signature of the following nineteen men,
acting 'in behalf of the rest:' Richard Blacklatch, Isaac Kneli, Daniel Shelton,
Wm. Rawlinson, Jonathan Pitman, John Peat, Samuel Gaskill, Samuel Hawley,
William Smith, John Skidmore, Timothy Titharton, Archibald Dunlop, Thomas
Edwards, Isaac Brint, Daniel Bennett, Richard Blacklatch, Jr., Thomas Brooks,
Isaac Stiles, Samuel Henry. (Sermon, page 8).

"Letter from the Wardens and Vestry to the Venerable Society, 1712. The
names of the Wardens and Vestry first appear this year. Wardens: Timothy
Titharton, William Smith. Vestry: William Rawlinson, William Jeanes, John
Johnson, Richard Blacklatch, Daniel Shelton, Archibald Dunlop, James Hum-
phreys, James Clarke, Edward Borroughs." (Sermon, page 9.)

" In 1724, the wardens and vestry were chosen from Stratford, Fairfield, New-
town, and Ripton, as follows : Wardens for Stratford, Nehcmiah Loring, Thomas
Salmon ; for Fairfield, Dougal Mackenzie ; for Newtown, John Glover ; for Ripton,
Daniel Shelton, Charles Lane. Vestry for Stratford, Wm. Jeanes, Jonathan Pit-
man, John 'Johnson, Richard Blacklatch, William Smith, Samuel French, Samuel
Watkins, Samuel Blagg, James Laborie, Jr.; for Fairfield, James Laborie, Sen.,
Benjamin Sturgis ; for Newtown, Samuel Beers, Robert Seeley ; for Ripton, James
Wakelee, Richard Blacklatch, Nathaniel Cogswell."

1* A little before the war there is this record, April 20, 1772 : "Voted that the
pew next to the pulpit be given to Capt. Philip Nichols, he building the Christen-
ing pew."

"The',last record is the baptism of Asa, son of Thomas and Ann Curtiss on
the 3d of February, 1776.

368 History of Stratford.

supposing that the churchmen of this town were generally
patriots.

" The parish seems to have been destitute of clerical ser-
vices for some time after Mr. Kneeland's death. In April,
1778, the use of the glebe was granted to his widow until the
appointment of another incumbent to the parish.

" In 1783, the Independence of the United States was
acknowledged by Great Britain, and with this ended the aid
extended to the parish by the society in England, it being
deemed incompatible with their charter to carry on mission-
ary operations beyond the dominions of the British crown.

" The parish was now thrown entirely upon its own re-
sources, and, notwithstanding the trials of the previous ten
years, it soon gave proofs of life and vigor. On the i8th of
April, 1784, the Rev. Jeremiah Learning, D.D., was called to
the Rectorship and immediately entered upon his duties,
which he continued until Easter, 1790, when, suffering from
the infirmities of age, he resigned his position.

"An aged communicant, Mrs. Susan Johnson, of the
parish, who received the statement from members of the fam-
ily of a former generation, informs me that Bishop Seabury's
first confirmation, and hence the first administration of the
rite in America, was in this church in which we are now
worshiping.

"On the first of April, 1793, the Rev. Ashbel Baldwin,
then of Litchfield, was called to the rectorship to officiate
here two-thirds of the time. He accepted the call, devoting
to the Church at Tashua the remaining Sundays."

Mev, Aslibel JBaldivin was born in Litchfield on the
7th of March, 1757, of Congregational parents, and was grad-
uated at Yale College in 1776. He held for some time, dur-
ing the Revolutionary War, the appointment of a quarter-
master in the Continental Army and received a pension from
the Government, which was his principal means of support
in his latter days.

He became a clergyman of the Episcopal Church and
the change of denomination is accounted for as follows :

" After leaving college, he engaged himself, temporarily,
as a private tutor in the family of a gentleman on Long Island.

Biographical Sketches. 369

The family belonged to the Church of England, and, at that
date, where the Episcopal house of worship was, tor any
cause, closed on Sunday, it was customary for the stanchest
churchmen to turn their parlors into chapels and have the
regular morning service. Mr. Baldwin, being the educated
member of the household, was required to act as the family
lay reader, and, ashamed to confess his ignorance of the
Prayer Book, he sought the aid and friendship of the gar-
dener, who instructed him in the use of the ' Order for Morn-
ing Prayre ;' and soon his love and admiration of the Liturgy
and conversion to the Church followed.'"*

He was one of the first four candidates at the first ordi-
nation by Bishop Seabury at Middletown in 1785, and after
preaching at Litchfield nearly eight years, was invited to the
rectorship of the Church in Stratford, April i, 1793, which
he accepted, the p)arish then including the Church at Tashua.
This position he held until his resignation in 1824. He served
the Church in other offices most efficiently many years and
departed this life February 27, 1825, and was buried in the
Episcopal burying place.

The Rev. Edward Rutledge succeeded Mr. Baldwin, and
served until the spring of 1829, when he accepted a situation
as professor in the University of Pennsylvania at Philadelphia.

For a short time after Mr. Rutledge, the Rev. Ashbel
Steele officiated in this Church, but was not rector.

The Rev. George C. Shephard followed him from Nov. i,
1829, until Easter, 1839.

Several other clergymen followed these in succession,
the Rev. Edwin W. Wiltbank, the Rev. Alfred A. Miller, the
Rev. John Morgan, the Rev. James Scott, and on the 28th of
October, 1849, the Rev. John A. Paddock commenced his
labors here, and the next April 30th was admitted to the
order of priests by Bishop Brownell.

'* History of the Church in Connecticut, ii. 345 and 425.

CHAPTER XV.

THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.

INGS and monarchs have nearly always
estimated too lightly the power of the com-
mon people they pretended and sought to
govern, until it was too late to govern at all.
King George III. of Great Britain, and his
Ministers of State, were no exceptions to
this law or want of wisdom, in 1776, and
hence the American Revolution and the
Independence of the United States,

The loyalt}' of New England had been
exhibited previously, by its aid in the war
between England and France, by the num-
ber, energy and success of volunteers and
the expenses borne. In the capture of
Louisburgh the Connecticut soldiers under
Capt. David Wooster bore an honorable part ; there being,
however, only one memorandum concerning it on the Strat-
ford town records, so far as seen.

"Zebulon Lorin of Stratford having been a soldier in the
reduction of Louisburgh and the Island of Cape Brittain, in
the Col. Goreham Regiment and in Capt. Lumber's Com-
pany, sold for ten pounds current money to Capt. David
Wooster of New Haven, all title to his right in ' Plunder,
stock of plunder, captures, stock of captures and all my right,
title, interest and claim to the soil, land and appertenances
upon or in the said Island of Cape Brittain and parts adjoin-
ing.' March 27, 1746, — 19th year of the Reign of Our Sover-
eign Lord George II. King, &c."

No account of the part Stratford had in the French war
has been obtained except that which appears incidentally in
the following record of the acts of the General Assembly, but

Revolutionary War. 371

a careful perusal of the colon}' records shows Connecticut to
have done grandly in soldiers and money in I hat war.

The following is one item only, amounting in the aggre-
gate to ;^2376-ii*-6^.

"October 1758. On the memorial of the inhabitants of
the towns of Fairfield, Milford, Stratford, Norwalk and
Stanford, praying for the reimbursement of the charge and
expense for quartering Col. Frasiers Highland Battalion the
last winter; Resolved by this Assembly that the treasurer of
this Colony be and hereby is ordered and directed to pay out
the Colony treasury to the inhabitants of the town of Fairfield
the sum of ;^449-i6*-3'^ ; Milford the sum of ;/^429- 12^-4^2 •* ;
Stratford ;^435-io^-ii^^ Norwalk, £i^c)-f-2y2^ \ Stanford,
^^369-1 3^-4^'*, for charges and expenses referred to,"

But these appropriations did not settle the matter, for it
came before the Assembly the next spring, and a committee
was appointed to investigate the expenses and make report,
and the next October another committee was appointed to
complete the examination of the matter, but the towns pre-
ferred to bring the matter before that bod}- at that time, and
it ordered the following sums paid: Fairfield, ^491-15^-7*^;
Milford, ;^49i-io'-9'^; Stratford, ^72-5^-1 1** ; Norwalk, ^^487
-5*-6*^; and Stanford, ;^433-i3'-ii'^, in full satisfaction of their
said respective accounts."

The Regiment of Col. Frasier or a part of it lay encamped
in Stratford, during the winter of 1757 and 8, on the common
east of the old Episcopal burying-ground. He and his com-
missioned officers occupied the house then recently built, but
never occupied, by the Rev. Izrahiah Wetmore." Col. Frasier
was he who said that with one regiment he could march
through North America.

The Rev. I. Wetmore recorded Jan. 29, 1758, the baptism
of Bettee the daughter of Daniel Gunn, drum Major in Col.
Frasier's regiment.

He also records: "On October 6, 1760, baptised Victory
the son of Iz. Wetmore, born the 8th of September previous,
the day Montreal was taken."

' Vol. ii. Town Records.

372 History of Stratford.

It is said that Col. Frasier's men amused themselves at
times in shooting at the weather-cock at the top of the
Episcopal Church spire, which they pierced several times,
as may still be witnessed by climbing to it."

The records of Stratford introduce us to the part which
that town was to take in the Revolution by three votes in
town meeting.

"December 19, 1774, Ichabod Lewis moderator. In the
meeting were read the proceedings of the Continental Con-
gress, and the association therein recommended, and unani-
mousl}^ appeared as the most peaceable and likely method to
be pursued at present, and that we will firmly adhere to the
measures proposed in said association until the next General
Congress, unless we obtain redress of our grievances before
that time. Passed without contradiction.

"Voted N. C. D.' that a committee be chosen in the
several parts of this town to observe the conduct of all per-
sons relative to said association and proceed thereon accord-
ing to the advice therein given : and Mess. Robert Fairchild,
Deacon Johnson, John Brooks, Esqr., Capt. Isaiah Brown,
Capt. Samuel Whiting, Capt. Daniel Judson, Isaac Nichols,
William Pixlee, Mr. Nathan Birdsey, Mr. Joseph Curtiss,
Maj. Agur Judson, Ichabod Lewis, Daniel Fairchild, Esqr.,
Capt. Abraham Brinsmade, Capt. Nathan Booth, Capt. Sam-
uel Blakeman, Capt. Stephen Burroughs, Elnathan Curtiss
and Abijah Starling were chosen a committee for the purpose
abovesaid."

The first great overt war act of the British government
towards the colonies was the blockading of Boston. No act

* The officers of Col. Frasier's Highland Regiment quartered in Stratford and
Milford in 1757 and 8 were :

Hon. Col. Simon Frasier, Lieut. Alexander McLoud,

Capt. John McPherson, Lieut. Simon Frasier,

Capt. John Campbell, Lieut. William McDonald,

Capt. Charles Baile)', Lieut. Hector McDonald,

Lieut. John Cuthbert, Ensign Simon Frasier,

Lieut. Charles McDonald. Ensign John Chisholm,

Lieut. John Frasier, Adjutant Hugh Frasier.

In 1759, Sergt. William Young and Captain Gordon of the 48th Regiment.

^ Nemine contra dicente. Without one dissenting voice.

Revolutionary War. ^y7

could have been more fortunate for America and unfortunate
for England, since nothing could move the sympathies of the
people throughout the country as the causing of indiscrimin-
ate suffering of helpless women and children of the poorer
classes. This is clearly set forth in the resolution of the town
when assembled, December 19, 1774.

"The meeting then took into their serious consideration
of the unhappy circumstances of the poor people of Boston,
now suffering in the common cause of American liberty under
the oppressive acts of the British Parliament called the Bos-
ton Post Bill ; and thereupon unanimously voted, that a
subscription be immediately opened, and collection be made
and sent as soon as may be, for the relief of the poor sufferers
in that town; and Mess^ Philip Nichols, Josiah Hubbell,
David Hawley, Nathan Bennitt, Stephen Burroughs and
Legrand Cannon, are appointed a committee to solicit and
transmit to Boston such donations as they shall receive, by
any safe opportunity, addressed to the committee appointed
to take care of, and employ the poor of that place.

"Attest, Robert Fairchild, Town Clerk."

In this list of names may be seen Episcopalians as well as
Congregationalists ; and the same is true throughout the
struggle to the end of the war.

The next year — Dec. 18, 1775 — the town appointed as a
" Committee of Observation," the following persons:

" Robert Fairchild, Daniel Fairchild, Esqr.,

John Brooks, Esq., Capt. Abram Brinsmade,

Capt. Isaiah Brown, Capt. Nathan Booth,

CoL Samuel Whiting. Capt. Lemuel Blackman,

Daniel Judson, Esq., Capt. Stephen Burroughs,

Mr. William Pixlee, Mr. Elnathan Curtiss,

Mr. Isaac Nichols, Mr. Abijah Starling,

Mr. Joseph Curtiss, David Wilcockson, Esq.,

Maj. Agur Judson, Mr. George Thompson."
Col. Ichabod Lewis,

The battle of Lexington, Mass., occurred on the 19th of
April, 1775, and the above seems to be the first vote of Strat-
ford in sustaining the war. The next year, in December.

374 History of Stratford.

1776, after the Declaration of Independence, a like committee
was appointed, but it was called the " Committee of Inspec-
tion," and consisted of the following persons :

" Capt. Ebenezer Coe, Daniel Bennitt,

Capt. Nathaniel Wheeler, Benjamin Deforest,

John Benjamin, Maj. Agur Jiidson,

William Thompson, Edmund Leavenworth,

Capt. Isaiah Brown, Capt. Abraham Brinsmade,

William Pixley, Stephen Middlebrook,

Capt. Samuel Beers, David Wells,

Abijah Sterling, Thomas Hawley,

Nehemiah Deforest."

At the same time they passed the following:

"Voted, that watch and ward be kept in this town at the
discretion of civil authority and selectmen as to the number
from time to time, and to appoint a grand officer or officers
to superintend said watch who shall be under the discretion
of said authority and selectmen, and obey their instructions,
and said grand officers shall be rewarded for their time while
on duty not exceeding soldier's wages.

"January 13, 1777, Messrs. Joseph Curtiss, Capt. John
Sherwood, John Hinman, William Wordin and Aaron Haw-
ley, were added to the above committee of inspection."

A special town meeting was called, and met at Trumbull,
probably, as being more central and convenient for the whole
township, since no part of the original township had then
been taken from it by the formation of any other town ; and
decided action was taken.

" At a meeting of the inhabitants of the town of Strat-
ford, holden at North Stratford Parish at said Parish meeting
house, on Monday the 7th of April, 1777, in consequence of
an order or requisition made by his honor the Governor and
Council of Safety holden at Lebanon on ye i8th March, ult,
said meeting being duly warned, chosen Mr. Nathan Birdsey,
moderator, and John Brooks, clerk. Committees chosen: for
the old society, Capt. Samuel Beers, Lieut. Ephraim Will-
cockson and William Pixlee ; for Ripton, Maj. Agur Judson
and Elisha Mills; for North Stratford, Stephen Middlebrook

Revolutionary War. ^75

and Eliakim Walker; for Stratfield, Nathan Nichols and
Jabez Summers; for New Stratford, Capt. Nathan Booth and
Dea. John Judson; for New Stratford, west part, Benjamin
Beardsley.

"The meeting proceeded to vote unanimously that they
will give as an additional bounty to all such as shall or have
inlisted themselves into the Continental service for the time
of three years or during the war, the sum of ten pounds law-
ful money, and that this donation shall be paid to such only
as are inlisted to it and belong to the quota of men this town
is to raise.

"Voted, also a tax or rate on the pound of eight pence
for the purpose abovesaid, on the list for the year 1776, and
that Capt. John Benjamin collect the same, and that the col-
lector pay the same into the hands of the selectmen from time
to time for the purpose above mentioned."

The following is a sample of the drafting and of paying
fines at the early stage of the war, as shown by the dates. It
is said that Daniel McEwen was a locksmith and his trade at
this time in making and repairing guns was so profitable that
he could afford to pay his fine every few months, besides
remaining at home, somewhat shielded from danger.

"Stratford, May 14, 1777.
"To Mr. Daniel McEwen, Sen.

In pursuance of Regimental Orders after a fair Lot drawn ; you are to equip
yourself; and you are detached to serve as a guard under the Command of Col.
Samuel Whiting until January next unless sooner discharged.

John Benjamin, Captain."

"Stratford, May 15, 1777.
Then Received of Mr. Daniel McEwen, five pounds lawful money in full for a
fine for not serving until January next under the command of Col. Samuel Whit-
ing, when drafted. Reed per me

John Benjamin, Town Treasurer."

" Stratford, Sept. 30, 1777.
Reed of Mr. Daniel McEwen, five pounds L. Money for a fine for neglect of
duty when drafted to serve under Col. John Mead.

Reed per me

John Benjamin, T. Treasurer."

At another special meeting held Nov. 10, 1777, they made
the following record :

276 History of Stratford.

" The laws were read in said meeting respecting the pro-
viding of necessaries for the Continental soldiers, &c., and
were of opinion it ought to be done, and thereupon appointed
Messrs. Mr. Joseph Curtiss, Capt. John Benjamin, Capt.
Joseph Birdsey, Mr. Zechariah Lewis, Capt. Joseph Burton,
Daniel Fairchild, Esqr., Mr. David Wells, Nehemiah Deforest,
Capt. Robert Hawley, and Capt. John Sherwood, a commit-
tee to provide immediately all those necessaries for said sol-
diers as the law directs.

" Voted in said meeting that Messrs. Ephraim Willcock-
son, William Pixlee, Maj. Agur Judson, Elisha Mills, Esqr.,
Stephen Middlebrook, Eliakim Walker, Nathan Nichols,
Jabez Summers, Capt. Nathan Booth, Dea. John Judson, and
Benjamin Beardslee are reappointed a committee for the pur-
pose of supplying the families of such soldiers as are in the
Continental service, as the law directs."

One month later, Dec. 22, 1777, a committee was ap-
pointed to receive all provisions the people were disposed to
give for the support of the soldiers' families, and another was
appointed to distribute the same ; and a tax was laid of six-
pence on the pound. This made two taxes voted in one year,
amounting to fourteen pence per pound.

Also, a committee of inspection was appointed as usual
for the year.

Capt. JEbenezev Coe, who was elected deacon in the
Congregational Church in 1784, was a captain in the Ameri-
can army and left the following brief record of his service
and misfortunes in that war.

" An account of the singular misfortune and deliverances
which befel me during the contest.

" Aug. 13, 1776, marched to New York with my company
as Lieutenant at the time, and on the 15th of September, pro-
videntially escaped from the enemy to Harlem hills and
arrived home on the 17th, after which I was sick some months.

"On the 25th of April, 1777, twelve o'clock at night,
marched to Fairfield. The next day to Danbury ; 27th to
Ridgefield, it being Lord's day ; attacked the enemy ; re-
ceived a musket ball through my head, cutting off a part of
my right ear and carrying away my right eye. I fell, as

Revolutionary War. t^-j-j

dead, lay a time, but recovered to my thoughts, after bcini^^
inhumanly stabbed with a bayonet in my side and right hand
while 1 lay unfeelingly as dead ; which perhaps was the
means, by turning the stream of blood another way, of saving
my life.

" At this time, being come to my thoughts, was abused,
robbed, and repeatedly threatened with instant death. But
blessed be the name of the Lord, who delivered me from
death and from the hand of my enemies, who heard my cry
in the night of distress, as in the i42d Psalm, and brought
me to my house, the 21st day of Ma3^ ' Bless the Lord, O
my soul and forget not all his bjenetits.' "

Tradition explains further, that while Captain Coe lay on
the field wounded a British soldier was about to pierce him
with a bayonet when a superior officer severely reprimanded
him, took up Captain Coe, carried him to a school house near
by, examined his commission which was in his pocket, ex-
pressed his sorrow at being unable to give him further aid
and withdrew.

The Captain recovered and lived many years afterwards.

" Dec. 31, 1 78 1. On motion in town meeting, it was
voted that the house purchased by the selectmen from Mr.
Silas Nichols for the horse-neck service, be given and granted
as a free donation to Capt. Ebenezer Coe, as a compensation
in part for his suffering and loss occasioned by the enemy
landing on Stratford Point last summer.

" William Thompson was also present from Stratford at
■the fight at Danbury. At Ridgefield he was wounded, and
while in that condition a British soldier stepped up and blew
out his brains with his gun."

The following resolves sent to Stratford for their consid-
eration and adoption, manifest a remarkable degree of clear
perception and discriminating judgment, precisely as to what
the people intended to secure by their resistance to England ;
and the people of Stratford on hearing them read, quickly
decided to pass them without alteration ; and here is a for-
cible illustration that the people understood that they were
contending for great principles of government that were
worthy of the efforts and sacrifices they were making to
secure them.

3/8 History of Stratford.

"Stratford, Second Monday of January, 1778.

The meeting took into consideration the Articles of Con-
federation proposed and recommended by the Continental
Congress, and being read and deliberately considered, para-
graph by paragraph, and were adopted and approved by said
meeting, and the Representatives be instructed to give their
voice for the approbation in General Assembly.

" The meeting then proceeded to adopt several resolves
of the town of Norwich which was thought of such impor-
tance to the privileges of the people, and so seasonably pre-
sented to the meeting as to need no emendation.

" First. The Representatives of the freemen of this
town, use their utmost influence in the General Assembly to
have the Delegates in Congress chosen by the freemen of this
State in the same manner as the Assistants in this State are
chosen.

" 2dly. That they use their influence to procure an alter-
ation of the mode of taxation in such a manner that the same
may be levied on the inhabitants in proportion to the worth
of their whole estate, which method alone we conceive to be
equitable.

" 3dly. That they endeavor to procure an act to be
made and passed that all male persons in this State who are
obliged by law to give in their list and able to pay taxes and
are of sober life and conversation, and have taken the oath to
the State (and of Freemen) may have the privilege of voting
in all Freemen's Towns and Societies meetings, when they
are liable to pay taxes in consequence of those votes.

"4thly. That they also endeavor to have the debates in
the Assembly be made as public as may be, and that the yeas
and nays in every important question be noted in the Journal
and published that the towns may have them.

" Sthly. That they use their influence that the Delegates
of this State in Congress be instructed to transmit to the
Assembly a list of the yeas and nays in every important
question, and that the publication of the Journal of Congress
may be printed with the greatest dispatch and sent to the
different States.

" The foregoing several Resolves the Clerk is directed
to give in writing to the Representatives of this Town.

Revolutionary War. -ijn

" The several matters, causes and complaints of several
persons who deserted from the Fish Kills and Peeks Kills in
the company in October last, for which desertion they have
been prosecuted and fined, and said tine secured or to be
secured in the town treasury : On motion, voted, that Samuel
Whiting, Abraham Brinsmade, Esqr., Mr. Nathan Birdsey,
and Deacon Daniel Bennitt be and are hereby appointed a
committee to hear and enquire into the causes of their said
desertion, and if it shall appear to the satisfaction of said
committee that the aforesaid deserters have reason sutificient
to excuse themselves from said fine the committee are accord-
ingly to make their report to proper authority, and the town
voted to give up their fines, yet not so as to make this a pre-
cedent or to countenance desertion in future."

" Mar. 20, 1778. The meeting proceeded, as was designed
in the warning, to read, particularly and distinctly the present
act of the General Assembly made at Hartford on the 12th
day of February, 1778, entitled an act for the regulation of
the prices of labour, produce, manufactures, and commodities
within this State ; likewise the doings, requisitions and stat-
ings of civil authority and selectmen of this town, on the
several articles, &c., &c., not particularly enumerated in said
act, which duty as aforesaid, the said act does enjoin; at the
same time also was laid and read before said meeting a
Resolve of the General Assembly of this State at their session
in Hartford on the 2d Tuesday of January, 1778, requiring
this town to procure a quantity of clothing for the Continen-
tal troops, &c., as per sd Resolve.

"The meeting after hearing the foregoing act. Stating of
the town and Resolves of the Assembly ; and approved there-
of, did proceed to vote, ist, that this meeting does recom-
mend that a suitable number of men in each society oi the
Town do enter into an association and mutual engagement
with each other, to assist the civil magistrate and all intorm-
ing officers, to carry effectually into execution all breaches of
the present regulating act of Assembly, and the doings and
statings of the civil authority and selectmen of this town
thereon, and this meeting by their vote also do earnestly
recommend that the members of which this association may

38o

History of Stratford.

be composed, be vigilant in complaining of and prosecuting
all breaches of this act, which shall be considered by this
meeting as rendering (not only this town) but the public the
most essential service.

" Voted secondly, that Mr. Joseph Curtiss, Mr. Nathan
Birdsey and Capt. Benjamin of this Society ; Capt. Joseph
Burton and Mr. Daniel Hawley, of North Stratford parish,
Woolcot Hawley of Stratfield parish, Zechariah Lewis and
Samuel Beard of Ripton parish, Nehemiah DeForest and
Lieut. David Wells of New Stratford parish, and Capt. John
Sherwood of North Fairfield parish, be and they are each
and every of them appointed as a committee in behalf of this
town to purchase and procure clothing, &c.,' for the Conti-
nental troops agreeable to the directions of the aforesaid re-
solve of Assembly.

3 North Stratford, March ii, 1778.

The following is an exact account of the donations of the parish of North
Stratford, for the Continental soldiers in the southern annj', Valley Ford, belong-
ing to this place, sent down by Lieut. Beebe, being fifteen in number, to be divided
equally between them, viz : the following persons : John Downs, Jeames Downs,
Abraham Hawley, Truman French, William Dascom, Daniel Evis, Nathan Haw-
ley, Reuben Beach, Joel Mosher, John Craford, Samuel Henman, Daniel Sher-
wood, Toney Turney, Caesar Edwards, and Nero Hawley.

The following persons were the donors :

Daniel Beers o

Jonathan Beers, o

Nathaniel Mosour,. o

David Stratton -. o

Hawkins Nichols, o

Daniel Turney, o

David Turney o

Elnathan Turney, o

John Turney, o

Robert Turney, o

Gideon Peet, o

David Edwards, Jr., o

John Hains, o

David Barsley, o

Thaddeus Barsley,. o

James Barsley, o

David French, o

John Burton,.. o

Ichabod Hawley, o

Eliakim Beach o

Daniel Beach, o

Thomas Edward's wife, 0

Joshua Henman, o

John Beach,. o

Reuben Sherwood, o

Enoch Henman, o

Josiah Henman, o

Samuel Turney o

Joseph Burroughs, o

Samuel Edwards, 0

Edmon Curtis, 0

Gershom Turney, o

Ephraim Sterling, o

Peter Beers, o

Stephen Middlebrook, o

Revolutionary War. 381

"On representation made to this meeting by Col. Whit-
ing and Capt. Joseph Birdsey, that the lines at the Sawpitts
were in a defenceless condition for want of men, and much
exposed to the enemy and that although there had been a late
draft from the militia and alarm list companies of this town,
and regimental orders issued to them to march, join and take
part at the said Saw-Pitts under the command of said Capt.
Joseph Birdsey, notwithstanding which order many had re-
fused to join said Captain as aforesaid, in consequence of
which default orders were now issuing for a new draft to
supply the deficiency aforesaid. Therefore, in order to en-
courage the soldiery, on motion it was voted that this town
will give a bounty of five pounds to the non-commissioned
officers and soldiers that have joined or shall speedily join
said company at said post under the command of said Joseph

The subscribers that gave cheese.

lbs. oz.

Josiah Henman, 5 o

John Edwards, 3d, 6 o

David Edwards, 3d, 6 o

John Edwards, 4th, 5

Abigail Mosour, 4 2

Eliakim Walker 5 4

lbs. oz.

David Salmon, 5 4

Jabez Beach 3 12

Mrs. Starling 4 4

Mrs. Beach, 4 12

Joseph Burton 7 4

Benjamin Burton, 6 o

John French, 6 8

John Wheeler,.. 6 o

Subscribers for gammon.

lbs. oz. I lbs. oz

Andrew Beach, i 8 John Hinman, 4

Abel Beach, 4 o j Reuben Sherwood 5 S

William Burritt, neat tongue,... ' John Turney 4 o

Mrs. Hinman,. 2 8 j Agur Beach 4 4

Josiah Hinman, 4 8 |

Small packs sent —

By Elnathan Seeley, 15 4 I By Andrew Hawley 8 8

By Daniel Hawle}', 6 o | By Peter Lewis 4 6

North Stratford, 12th March. 1778.
Then received of Mr. Stephen Middlebrook. the sum of seven pounds, three
shillings and ten pence, lawful money, for the purpose of paying the expenses
of transporting a donation in provisions, from the parish of North Stratford to the
Continental soldiers of that parish, Genl. Washington's Headquarters.

pr. James Bkebee, Captain." *
* Manuscript of Major L. N. Middlebrook of Bridgeport.

382 History of Stratford.

Birdsey ; provided they thus continue on duty the term of
two months, or are sooner discharged, and that the fines
drawn from the delinquents or to be recovered from them be
appropriated for the aforementioned purpose.

October 12, 1778. Voted that Mess' Capt. Samuel Beers
and John Brooks Esqr. be and they are hereby appointed a
committee to receive and take into their stores and keeping a
certain quantity of salt, supposed to be about seventy-five
bushels, the property of the town, and hold and dispose of
same in the following way and manner (viz :) to deal and
deliver out said salt to every society as nearly as may be
according to their respective lists, and that a committee be
appointed in each society to receive their proportion of said
salt, barter and exchange the same to the inhabitants of said
societies respectively for necessary provisions, &c., and no
man shall be allowed to purchase by exchange more than half
a bushel of said salt, and some less as their circumstances may
be, at the discretion of the committee who deal out and
exchange said salt; and the avails of said salt shall be appro-
priated to the support of the soldiers' families and poor of
the town as the law requires ; and said committees to render
their accounts to the next town meeting of their doings
thereon.

"And for the first society, John Brooks, Esqr., for the
society of Ripton Mr. Ebenezer Blackman, for North Strat-
ford Mr. Sylvanus Starling, for Stratfield Mr. Wm. Wardon,
for New Stratford Capt. Samuel Blackman, and for North
Fairfield, part, Capt. John Sherwood, are chosen a committee
to receive the proportionable part of salt belonging to each
society according to their respective list."

The year 1779 was one of great discouragement to the
Colonies because many things seemed to forebode defeat to
the objects for which the strife had continued for four years.
In July Governor Tryon came up the Sound with several
hundred soldiers to burn and destroy the villages along the
shore. On the 7th of that month they plundered New Haven
and on the nth burned Fairfield.

Some of the Stratford people were greatly frightened,
and engaged in an effort to secure the place against future

Revolutionary War. 383

calamity, by entreat}', by circulating a subscription paper,
with the following' heading :

" We, the subscribers, being exceedingly desirous, if
possible, to save the town from the destruction it is now
threatened with by the invasion of the British fleet and army,
do hereby request and desire Doctor William Samuel John-
son, Captain Philip Nichols, Captain George Benjamin, and
Mr. Ebenezer Allen to use their influence, either in person or
by letter, with the British Admiral and General to save the
town. xA.nd we do hereby promise and most sacredly engage
to support them in the execution of their design, and to
protect and defend them from any insult, injury, or abuse,
either in their persons, properties, or families, on account of
their making such application : as witness our hands this 12th
day of July, 1779."*

Intelligence of these proceedings soon reached General
Oliver Wolcott's headquarters at Horseneck, who sent Col.
Jonathan Dimon to Stratford to make inquiry, and upon his
report the General gave him the following order:

''Sir, — Your favour of yesterday is received. I shall
make no observations upon the tendenc}', or rather the
conclusive effect of those men's conduct who could wish to
supplicate the clemency of an enemy whose unparalleled
barbarity has put a dishonor on human nature. To a mind
enlightened by science, and which views acts with their
consequences, it is impossible that it should not comprehend
that the step which was intended to be taken must, by
inevitable consequences, involve in it the most abject sub-
mission to a tyranny rendered, if possible, ten times more
detestable than it was before, by the very means by which it
was designed to be established. These are times when the
usual forms of proceeding are to give place to a regard for
the public safety, and the love of country is to be preferred
at all times to the friendship of youth.

" You are therefore, Sir, directed to send, under guard or
otherwise, Dr. William Samuel Johnson, of Stratford, to the
town of Farmington, and deliver him to the care and custody

^ Life and Times of Wm. Samuel Johnson, 113.

384 History of Stratford.

of the civil authority of that town, and request of them that
the}' would secure or keep him under such proper restraints
as to prevent his having an}- correspondence with the enemy."

The further record of this matter is as follows,' as given
by the Rev. Dr. Beardsley :

" A detachment of troops was sent to carry out this
order, and Johnson was made a prisoner, but conscious of
his innocence, and wishing to avoid a public disturbance, he
persuaded the officer to accept his word of honor that he
would proceed at once to Farmington, and place himself
voluntarily in the custody of the selectmen. One of that
board was John Treadwell, an acquaintance of his, who
declared, after consultation with his colleagues, that they
had no business with him, and that if they put him under
any restraint it would be a false imprisonment. Johnson
said he knew this, but suggested that, for their sakes and
his, it was necessary that they should do something ; and
proposed that they should permit him to pass to the Gov-
ernor and Council of Safety, in whose hands at that time was
lodged the military authority of the Colony, and whose
decision alone would quiet the people."

** Having given his parole" and received his pass, he
started on his solitary journey, and arriving at Norwich,
where the Council of Safety sat, unfortunately found that
body not in session. But he proceeded to Lebanon, the
residence of Governor Trumbull, and stated his condition

* Life and Times of Wm. Samuel Johnson, by the Rev. E. E. Beardsie)', D.D.,
"5.

* William Samuel yohtison's Parole.

" Farmington, July 23, A. D. 1779-
"I, the subscriber, having been sent by order from Major General Oliver
Wolcott, as a prisoner to the care of the civil authority of the town of Farmington,
and by them permitted to go from thence to Lebanon on business with his
Excellency the Governor and Council of Safety, do pass my word that on said
journey and business I will do nothing directly or indirectly against the interest
and welfare of the United States ; and that, on my having accomplished said
business, will return and put myself under the immediate care of said authority,
unless his Excellency the Governor and Council of Safety, or his Excellency the
Governor only, shall direct otherwise.

" Wm. Samuel Johnson."

Revolutionary War. 385

and the object of his appearing in his presence. As his
Excellency knew his character well, and the principles on
which he had acted from the beginning of the war, it did not
require any urgent entreaty to enlist his sympathy and gain
his favor. He informed Dr. Johnson that the Council would
meet again in two days, when he could appear, and the
matter would be laid before them, and the result commu-
nicated. The Council met, and his own statement went to
show that he had no inclination to aid the enemv ; that he
had encouraged the enlistment of soldiers ; contributed (jf
his property for that purpose, hired his man to serve for him
during the war, and was ready to take the oath of fidelity
required by law.

" After hearing the case, the Governor was advised to
permit him, until further orders, to return and remain in
Stratford, which place he speedily reached to the great joy
of his family and friends."

While Dr. Johnson was on his journey to the Governor
and returning, the town of Stratford was also in great com-
motion, as seen in the following records :

" At a town meeting specially warned and convened at
the town-house in Stratford July 21, 1779, for the purpose of
exculpating the town from the imputations of some scandal-
ous reports spread abroad to the disadvantage of the town,
purporting that the people were about carrying on a traitor-
ous correspondence with the enemy , and laying down their
arms and submitting to the British Government, &c., Daniel
Fairchild Esqr. moderator of said meeting:

" Voted unanimously that an address be made to the
public for the purpose abovesaid, — and Capt. Ebenezer Coe,
Samuel Adams, Esqr. Stephen Burroughs, Esqr. Abraham
Brinsmade, Esqr. and Capt. Blakman were appointed a
committee to prepare a draft for that purpose and lay it
before the meeting in their next adjournment. The meeting
adjourned to the 29th instant one o'clock afternoon to North
Stratford meeting-house. Test Robert Fairchild, Clerk.

July 29, 1779. The meeting convened and opened at
North Stratford meeting-house. Daniel Fairchild, Esqr.
moderator. The above committee made their Report which

386 History of Stratford.

was read, received and approved and ordered to be published
in New Haven paper with the names of those who had sub-
scribed a certain subscription paper as recited in said report
now on file, and on motion suggesting that Daniel Judson,
Esqr., John Brooks, Esqr. and Mr. George Lewis had so far
encouraged the signing said paper recited in said report that
their names ought to be inserted in the paper, the said
Brooks and Lewis shewed to the meeting to their satisfac-
tion, that they were not at all concerned in procuring said
paper, nor encouraging the signing thereof, and were dis-
charged by the meeting.

The said Judson acknowledged that he had been too
forward in encouraging people to sign, but without an)^
design of making a confession to the prejudice of his country,
but was innocent of any ill design, and was still a fast friend
of the cause of America; and desired the town would over-
look his misconduct and receive him into friendship again.

Whereupon voted that the said Daniel Judson, Esqr.
should have liberty to insert his name in said paper, and his
reflection or leave it out at his election, and Stephen Bur-
roughs, Esqr. was desired to fit said report and address tor
the press, and procure the same to be published.'

Test, Robert Fairchild, T. Clerk.

Other Town Acts djiring the Revolution.

"Town meeting at the Town-house Jul}^ 29, 1779. ^^^
said meeting Elisha Mills, Esqr., Daniel Bennitt, Esqr., Ste-
phen Burroughs, Esqr. and Capt. John Benjamin were ap-
pointed a committee to meet the county committee, at a time
and place to be agreed upon by other towns in this count}^ to
consult and devise some proper method to prevent a further
depreciation, to retrieve and establish the credit of our
currency.

" Resolved in said meeting that Isaac Wells Shelton shall
not reside in this town, and Robert Fairchild, Esqr. is desired
to inform Hartford County Sheriff thereof.

" Resolved that no inimical person now with the enem}-

'' See Appendix for a copy of this address.

Revohitiona7-y War. •jgj

shall return and reside in the town, unless they have the
approbation of the town in their meeting-."

" Sept. 21, 1779. In said meeting the regulation of prices
stated by Reading committee were read. The meeting then
chose Capt. Isaiah Brown, Capt. Ebenezer Coe, William
Pixlee, Capt. Nathaniel Wheeler, Sylvanus Starling, Stephen
Middlebrook, Capt. Zechariah Coe, Capt. Wm. Worden,
Abram Hubbell, Capt. Edmund Leavenworth, Benjamin
Mallory, James Blakman, Ebenezer Blakman, Samuel Beard,
Capt. Phineas Sherman, David Wells, Elijah Curtiss and
Elle Curtiss a committee to assist and inform the informing
officers of all breaches of laws that shall some to their knowl-
edge, that all the wicked tribe of monopolizers, engrossers,
forestallers and stock-jobbers who enhance the prices of the
necessaries of life, and depreciate our currency, ma}' be
brought to condign punishment, that their pernicious prac-
tices may be prevented.

" Test, Robert Fairchild, T. Clerk."
In June, 1780, the town in a meeting offered a bounty of
" ten pounds lawful silver mone}', or gold, or provisions
equivalent, to each effective man who would enlist and
serve, for the town, in the Continental army until the last
day of the next December.

" Voted, that each able bodied man who shall enlist to
serve in the Continental army for three years or during the
war shall receive a bounty, over and above the said ten
pounds, of six pounds lawful silver money annuall}' so long
as he shall continue in said service."

"On November 20, 1780, the town voted, in addition to
other taxes and supplies called for, "to provid 100 shirts, 100
pair of mittens, 100 pair of stockings and 100 pair of shoes,
for our soldiers belonging to this town who are now in the
service in the Connecticut lines."

In June, 1781, the town authorized the Recruiting com-
mittee to fill the quota required "for six months or twelve
months on the best terms they can ;" and the same directions
were given the next year, and at this time — 1782 — for the
first time the town voted to borrow money to pay the
bounties.

388 History of Stratford.

At the same meeting a tax of four pence hard money on
the pound was voted, to raise beef supplies for the army, and
the town appointed William Pixlee as collector to seize the
cattle and have them estimated and delivered to the receiver,,
and give credit for them, or pay for them from the town
treasury.

"Dec. 31, 1781. On motion it was voted that the select-
men be directed carefully to inspect all persons who shall
come into this town, and such as do not come well recom-
mended as being friends to this country, or do not manifest
the same to their satisfaction, they do forthwith warn out,,
and if need be prosecute them."

"December 31, 1781. On motion it was voted that the
town treasurer be directed to pay unto John Daskum as a
gratuity for his former service in the Continental army from
the commencement of the war to the present day, the sum of
six pounds, hard money, and to be paid as soon as may be."

Capt. Joseph Sull^* whose son Isaac in 181 2 became
Commodore in the American Navy, was a native of Derby in
this state, and commanded one of the light crafts known as
"Commission boats," which were employed in privateering
service against the British and Tories. Upon one occasion
he ran down to an inlet or arm of the sound near Throg's
Neck, where the British, then occupying New York, were
accustomed to send vessels for firewood. He found there,
under convoy of a schooner mounting ten guns, and of ninety
tons burthen, which lay at anchor in the stream, a number of
these wood vessels loading, and surprised and captured one
of them that night. The two sailors who composed her crew,
he caused to be secured below, and with his own men num-
bering about fifty, carefully concealed on board, he weighed
anchor with the captured craft, a little after midnight, and
bore down upon the British gunboat.

When hailed his reply disarmed suspicion, although he
was warned by the sentry to have a care or he would run
foul of them. " No, no ! room enough !" he replied, still
keeping on his course till he ran under the bows of the

8 Maj. W. B. Hink's Historical Sketches, 42.

Revolutionary War. 389

schooner, and then with all his men leai)ed on board. After
a short but fierce striig-gle, the schooner was taken; when,
with the two vessels, both under British colors, and his own
boat hoisted upon the deck of one of them, Captain Mull set
out upon his return, passed unsuspected three armed vessels
of the enemy lying at anchor off Eaton's Neck, and brought
his prizes safely into Black Rock harbor.

David Blaketnanf of Monroe, a descendant of the Rev.
Adam Blakeman, the first minister at Stratford, was amon^
Captain Hull's crew upon this occasion. In the act of board-
ing he was wounded across the abdomen by a cutlass so that
his bowels protruded, but he held the wound together, laying
quietly upon his back until the vessel was captured, when the
British surgeon dressed his wound. He recovered and lived
to be an old man. He, in consequence of a peculiarity of
voice, was known as " Squeaking David. "°

Zechariah Slakenia^if of Stratford, another descend-
ant from the same clergyman, was killed by the British on
the day when Fairfield was burned, July 11, 1779. His body
was brought to Stratford and laid under the shade of an old
buttonwood tree on the green, where numbers of people
flocked to view it. It was afterward buried in the graveyard
near the place where a stone still bears the name of his son
Abijah, who was lost at sea. The story goes that when Mr.
Blakeman heard that the British had landed at Fairfield, he
with others hurried to the scene of action, saying as he did so
that he would bring down at least one red-coat, but was shot
through the body by one of the enemy's sentinels while in
the act of taking aim.

Washington passing throiigJi Stratford.

There are related'" two incidents connected with Wash-
ington's progress through this part of the country during and
subsequent to the Revolution. The first was related by Mrs.
Alice Thompson, daughter of George Benjamin, of Stratford,

^ Manuscript of the Rev. B. L. Swan.
10 Maj. W. B. Hink's Historical Sketches, 44.
26

2Q0 History of Stratford.

who died in May, 1862, aged nearly ninety-eight years. She
was eleven years of age in 1775, and may have been thirteen
or fourteen when she saw Washington. On that occasion she
with other girls were picking berries on the banks of the
Housatonic near the ferry, when suddenly a cry was heard
that soldiers were crossing the river, and presently an officer
with a number of others landed and asked the ferryman to
direct them to the tavern. He replied : " Yonder is the
tavern-keeper's daughter," and calling Alice bade her show
General Lafayette the way to her father's house. She walked
beside his horse on their way to the village, Lafayette talking
to her in his charming broken English, telling her of his chil-
dren and asking if she would not like to go to France with
him to see them. On reaching home she found that General
Washington had arrived by the western road. Her mother
thus unexpectedly called upon to provide a dinner for two
such distinguished guests would have apologized for her fare,
but was reassured by Washington, who told her that all he
wanted was simple food, and that what was good enough for
her family was good enough for him.

Mrs. Benjamin happened to have some potatoes, then a
great rarity, and Alice obtained leave to place them upon the
table. In doing this she stepped between Washington and
Lafayette, when the former, placing his hand on her head and
turning her face toward him asked her name, and after some
other questions told her to be a good girl and gave her his
blessing. It may easily be supposed that she never forgot
the circumstances.

The late Mrs. Benjamin Fairchild, who died a few years
since aged over eighty, well remembered another visit made
by Washington to Stratford while on his tour through New
England in October, 1789. At that time Capt. Alison Benja-
min lived at Old Mill, about half-way down the western sh^pe
of the hill; the house is still standing and is owned by Mr.
Judson. This Capt. Benjamin built a sloop of forty-five tons
burthen called the " Hunter of Berkshire," in a field south
of the road, just opposite his own door, although there was
no water in sight. It was nearly completed when Washington
passed, and surprised at the sight, he alighted, went over to

Revolutionary War. -jqi

the place and questioned the workmen as to how they ex-
pected to get the vessel to the water. In reply, he was told
that strong ways were to be built beneath the craft, to serve
as a sled, upon which when winter came it would glide down
hill to the creek, a branch of Yellow Mill stream, fully a
quarter of a mile away, and in the spring would settle
through the ice into the water, and by this plan it was sub-
sequently launched.

A Midnight Party of Regulars.

In the winter of 1777 or 1778, the house of Joseph Lewis
on Old Mill Hill was visited by a party of British soldiers on
one of their plundering expeditions from Long Island. The
family being roused at dead of night by the crashing in of the
door, were unable to offer the slightest resistance, and there-
fore the soldiers not only stripped the house of all supplies of
food stored for the winter, but, taking the quilts and cover-
ings from the beds, spread them on the floor and emptied
into them the contents of all the drawers and chests, and
even the wearing apparel in daily use, tied them and carried
all away.

Mr. Lewis besought them to leave for his use the Conti-
nental bills found in the till of one of the chests, as they could
be no service to the regulars, but the officer in command
tauntingly answered that they " would serve for a bonfire,"
and carried them with the rest of the booty.

Phebe Lewis, a girl of twelve years, had that winter fin-
ished her first spinning stint. As she lay in her trundle-bed
while the soldiers were collecting the goods, she saw the
large roll of wool, dyed dark blue, ready for the weaving,
tossed upon the heap of plunder. It rolled to the edge near-
est her bed, and as the soldier on guard turned his back for
an instant, she grasped it, drew it into the bed and lay upon
it. Of all the family stores and supplies this was the onlv
article saved. The occupants of the beds were left shivering
under a single sheet, and in the morning were fed and clothed
by the charity of their neighbors.

Jabez Huntington Tomlinson, a student of Yale, and
engaged to be married to Rebecca Lewis, was spending the

392 History of Stratford.

night at the house. The soldiers on leaving ordered him to
rise, dress and accompany them. He was taken to Long
Island, thence to New York, and imprisoned in the Old Sugar
House. After a confinement of nearly two years, he suc-
ceeded, through the connivance of a guard, in sending a letter
to Sir Henry Clinton, detailing the circumstances of his cap-
ture and imprisonment, and praying for release. Clinton,
surprised to receive so scholarly an epistle from one of the
despised Yankees, granted the young man an interview and
subsequently allowed him to return to his friends."

Gen, David Wooster, son of Abraham and grandson
of Edward Wooster, one of the first settlers of Derb}^ was
born at Oronoke, in Stratford, March 2d, 1710-11. His father,
Abraham Wooster, from Derby, settled at Stratford about
1706, in the southeast corner of what is now Huntington,
where he remained until about 1720, when he settled at
Quaker's Farms, in Derby, where he died.

David Wooster was graduated at Yale College in 1738.
Something more would probably have been known of his
early life but for the burning of all his family papers by the
British when they pillaged New Haven in 1779.

When the Spanish war broke out in 1739 he was em-
ployed as first lieutenant, and in 1745 as captain of a coast
guard.

In 1746, he married, in New Haven, the beautiful and
accomplished daughter of Thomas Clapp, president of Yale
College ; but neither the society of a charming companion,
his love of classic lore, nor his youthful inclination for a
learned profession could restrain his devotion to the interests
of his country. He continued in the service and was ap-
pointed captain in Colonel Burr's regiment, which formed a
part of the troops sent by Connecticut in the celebrated suc-
cessful expedition against Louisburg in 1745.

For a time he was retained among the colonial troops to
keep possession of the conquest he had assisted in effecting,
and he was soon after elected among the American officers to
take charge of a cartel ship for France and England. He was

" Manuscript of Mrs. Rufus W. Bunnell.

Revolutionary War. -iq-i

not permitted to land in France, but was received in Hni^land
with distinguished honor.

The young American officer, as he was called, was pre-
sented to the King and became a favorite of the court and
people. The King admitted him into the regular service and
presented him with a captaincy in Sir William Pepperell's
regiment, with half-pay for life. His likeness at full length
was taken and transferred to the periodicals of that day.
The peace of Aix-la-Chapelle, which took place in 1748, re-
stored Louisburg to France, and the young American officer
to his home and family.

In the French war of 1756, he was appointed colonel of
a regiment raised in Connecticut, and afterwards to the com-
mand of a brigade, in which station he remained until the
peace of 1763, when he returned again to his family.

Soon after this he engaged in mercantile business in New
Haven, and held the office of his majesty's collector of the
customs of that port.

When the Revolutionary troubles began, although an
officer in the British regular army, entitled to half-pay for
life, he did not hesitate to take sides with his native country,
and his pen and sword were actively employed in the defense
of its rights.

After the battle of Lexington, he, with a few others,
while engaged in the General Assembly in May, 1775, planned
the expedition from Connecticut to seize and retain the fort
at Ticonderoga, and to enable them to carry their plans into
execution they privately obtained a loan of eighteen hundred
dollars from the treasury of the state, for which they became
personally responsible ; the result being that on the loth ot
May, this fort was surprised and delivered up to Allen and
Arnold, and their brave followers.

Congress, when informed of this transaction, recom-
mended that an inventory of the cannon and military stores
found in the fort should be take-n, " in order," as they say,
" that they may be safely returned when the restoration of
the former harmony between Great Britain and these colonies
shall render it prudent and consistent with the overruling
care of self-preservation."

394 History of Stratford.

The military experience, as well as the daring spirit of
General Wooster, recommended him to Congress when rais-
ing an army of defence, and among the eight brigadier gen-
erals appointed by that body on the 22d of June, 1775, he was
the third in rank.

During the campaign of 1776 General Wooster was em-
ployed principally along the Canada line, and at one time he
had the command of the Continental troops in that quarter.

After this expedition he returned home and was ap-
pointed first major-general of the militia of his state. During
the winter of 1776 and 1777 he was employed in protecting
Connecticut against the enemy, and particularly the neigh-
borhood of Danbury, where large magazines of provisions
and other articles had been collected by the Americans. He
had just returned to New Haven from one of his tours when
he heard on Friday, the 15th of April, 1777, that a body of
two thousand men, sent from New York on the preceding
day, had effected a landing at Norwalk and Fairfield for the
purpose of destroying the magazines at Danbury, which ob-
ject they accomplished the next day.

On hearing this news Generals Wooster and Arnold set
off from New Haven to join the militia hastily collected by
General Silliman, who numbered about six hundred, and with
this small force it was determined to attack the enemy on
their retreat, and a part of the men were put under General
Wooster and a part under General Arnold. General Wooster
with his men pursued the enemy the next morning, but he
having inexperienced militia and the enemy having several
field-pieces, his men, after doing considerable execution, were
broken and gave wav. The General was rallying them when
he received a mortal wound. A musket ball hit him obliquely,
broke his backbone, lodged within him and could not be ex-
tracted. He was removed from the field, his wounds dressed
and he was conveyed to Danbury where all possible care was
taken of him. His wife and son were sent for and came, but
skill and kindness could not save him, for he died on the sec-
ond day of May, 1777, at the age of sixty-six years.

Much care has been exercised to secure lists of Revolu-
tionary soldiers from Stratford, with very little success. If

Revolutionary War. 3q5

anythincr further shall Ire obtained it will be placed in the
Appendix of this book. In another town of this State, some
years since, an aged woman was asked who of the town went
to the war as soldiers. Her answer was: "Who went?
They all went." This answer, apparently, is appropriate to
Stratford.

Gen. Joseph Walker, The inscription on his tomb-
stone says: "He entered the American Army in the year
1777, served his country in the several grades of office, from
a Captain to a Major General."

Ca^yt, Ubenezer Coe, wounded at Ridgefield, April 27.

1777.

Capt. JSfehemiah GorJiam served through the war.
He died Feb. 17, 1836, aged 83 years.

Ca2>t, Beach Tonilinsoiif of Ripton, was in the army.

William Thomj^son was killed at Ridgefield, April 27,
1777; and on May 4, 1777, the Sunday after his death, the
Rev. Izrahiah Wetmore preached his funeral sermon at Strat-
ford. Text, Isaiah ix. 5. The manuscript sermon is still pre-
served by the Wetmore family.

George Thompson^ son of Daniel, is recorded in Rip-
ton, in 1776, as "died in the arm3\"

Af/ur Tonilhisonf of Ripton, son of Capt. Beach Tom-
linson, was in the army.

Samuel JDeForest^ born in July, 1758,

Abel DeForestf born in April, 1761,

Mills DeForestf born in May. 1763,

Gideon DeForest, born in September, 1765 ; all sons of
Joseph DeForest of StiaLford, were in the war; all drew
pensions many years, and all met in a reunion at Gideon's
home at Edmeston, Otsego County, N. Y., in 1835, fifty-four
years after the war closed, when the youngest was 70 years
of age and the eldest yy.

Capt. Stexthen 3Iiddlebroo7c and his company were in
the war as represented by receipts.

396 History of Stratford.

"Received, March 15, 1779, of Silvanus Starling, one of
the Selectmen of Stratford, Fifty-seven pounds, twelve shil-
lings lawful money, which is in full for my services, and the
persons under my command, in keeping guard at North Fair-
field in April, 1777.

Rec*^ per Stephen Middlebrook."

Nathan Gotham was born in 1751 and died May 28,
1839, aged 88 years.

Before the Revolution he and John Barlow sailed to-
gether in the West India trade, but when the war broke
out, they discontinued the business through fear of the Brit-
ish war vessels by whom they might be captured. After a
little time Barlow obtained command of an American priv-
ateer, to sail from Boston, and engaged Gorham as his mate
and sail maker.

" Ride and Tie.''

Their journey to Boston was accomplished in the follow-
ing manner, called " Ride and Tie." They purchased an old
horse for seven dollars, with which they started, one riding
and going ahead a number of miles then tying the horse so it
could eat grass, pursued his journey on foot. When the
other came to the horse he rode him, and passing his fellow
traveler continued his stipulated number of miles then tied
the horse to eat and took his journey on foot as before.
When they had in this manner reached near Boston they
turned the horse into the highway to care for himself, and
went to their boat.

They sailed with the purpose of capturing vessels from
England with supplies for British troops in America. After
sailing around about ten days, they sighted a ship and giving
chase, she made more sail as if trying to escape being cap-
tured, and the privateer being a fast sailer soon came up,
and running along side, commanded her to strike — or in
other words, to surrender. Upon this she opened her ports,
showing herself a man of war, and being so near, the privateer
could only surrender, and the men were taken as prisoners of
war. They were all sent to New York and put on board the
Jersey, a prison ship lying in the East river.

Revolutionary War. -jq?

Camp disorder (which was diarrhoea), soon broke out
among the prisoners, carrying off from ten to fifteen a day.
Mr. Gorham being a good oarsman was detailed as one of the
boatmen to take the dead ashore and bury them, and thereby
he escaped severe illness. This burying was performed
where the Navy Yard is now in the city of Brooklyn. A
large excavation was made and when a corpse was put in
some earth was thrown upon it, and thus one after another,
until the place was filled, and then another excavation was
made. All were taken ill, but many not severely, enlisted
in the British service as the only way to escape death, as
they were immediately transferred to healthy quarters. As
soon as Mr. Gorham was taken ill he enlisted and was put on
board a war vessel, in which they sailed to the southward.
One morning they fell in with a privateer and tried to decoy
her alongside, but did not succeed. The privateer was armed
with a long 32 pounder, while the war vessel had short guns,
and the firing of the former was very dangerous to the latter,
but she kept at a distance, and at evening disappeared. To
repair damages the war vessel put into St. Augustine, Flor-
ida, that being then a Spanish port, and while repairing, the
soldiers were at liberty in the port. Mr. Gorham and two
others finding an old canoe agreed to try to make their
escape, although at, great hazard. They saved from their
rations enough to last them two or three days. The canoe
being leaky Gorham stole a calking iron to make it tight
when they should reach a place out of danger of being cap-
tured. They coasted the canoe most of the way in sounds
and inland waters to the north part of North Carolina, going
ashore nights and begging what they needed to eat, in which
effort they would have had but little difficulty had it not
been for the savage dogs, which were so fierce that they
several times feared being torn in pieces. When they lelt
the canoe to come on land Mr. Gorham put the calking iron
in his pocket thinking he might sell it for a few pennies or
something to eat. He did not part with it, however, but
brought it to Stratford and kept it. About 1830 Mr. Nathan
Birdsey McEwen, grand-son of Nathan Gorham, had built a
boat and desiring to calk it went to his grandfather to borrow

398 History of Stratford.

a calking iron, upon which he gave him this iron that he
stole from the British war ship and told him this history
how he came by it, and Mr. McEwen named it " The Story
of the Calking Iron." In the year 1884, Mr. McEwen being
eip-hty years of age, and the iron having been in possession of
himself and his grandfather over one hundred years, he gave
it and its history to his nephew, Robert W. Curtis, for trans-
mission as a relic of the hardships of the American Revolution.
The iron has a stamp of the British crown upon it."

Nathan Gorham was in active service in the Revolution,
at New York City, and told the following story, a part of
which has already been published as Revolutionary history:

" I was in the retreat from Long Island and barely
escaped with life. The Stratford Company was the last to
leave, and just as the last boat was leaving the British Light-
horse were coming down upon it, and it was so loaded that
three men were left — John Benjamin, myself and another.
We ran up the river where the Navy Yard now is, and find-
ing a small boat, although dried and leaky, we launched it
and jumped in and with pieces of a rail rowed as well as we
could for the New York shore, bailing with our hats. We
drifted with the tide up to a place called Corlear's Hook and
almost to where the British had commenced crossing, our
boat sinking under us as we struck the shore. We started on
a run fearing we would be cut off. The day being very hot
we suffered dreadfully with thirst, when seeing a well the
third man said he must have some water or he should die.
Benjamin and myself, not daring to go, advised him not to,
but he went. Benjamin and myself narrowly escaped being
cut off, but the man who went to the well was never heard of
again. In Frost's History of the United States (II. 211), the
three are reported as staying behind for plunder, but after-
wards returning to their ranks, which is a decided error."

Nathan Gorham, although three years in the service,
enlisted only three months at a time, and therefore received
only a pension of thirty-six dollars per year. He died May
28, 1839, aged 88 years.

'■^ Manuscript of Nathan B. McEwen.

Revolutionary War. 3Qg

"John Barlow died May 4, 1786, in the 37th year of his
age. His tombstone is in the Congregational Cemetery, on
which is the following inscription, which he copied from the
monument of an English Admiral's tomb in the West Indies:

"Though Boreas' blasts and Neptune's waves
Have tossed me to and fro ;
In spite of death, by God'-- decree
I harbor here below.
Where I do now at anchor ride
With many of our fleet.
Yet once again I must set sail
Our Admiral Christ to meet."

The following is a copy of the Roll of Lieut. William
Hall's Company of Guard, stationed for four years — from
1777 to 1782 — in the old Borroughs store building on the
wharf of Bridgeport, furnished by Wildman Hall, one of the
members of the company and its last survivor, to Dea. Isaac
Sherman. The said Wildman Hall died July 10, 185 1.

Officers i7i ijSi.

Lieut. William Hall, Sargt. Isaac Patchen,

Corpl. Joel Parish.

Privates.

Thomas Cooke, Samuel French, clerk,

Ebenezer Hawley, Lyman Hall,

Samuel Wheeler, Ichabod Beardsley,

Zachariah Wheeler, Salmon Patchin,

Gideon Wells, James Gregory,

James Crawford, Josiah Burritt,

John Porter, Sherman Burritt,

William Hubbell, Denton Seeley,

Lyman Knapp, John McEnzie,

Ebenezer Gregory, Seth Bulkley,

Wildman Hall. Joseph Hawes.

A Substitute Paid for.

"Stratford in Connecticut, Febru'' 2o'\ 1778.
"This may certify that Phillip Benjamin and Stephen
Beers, both of the town of Stratford in Fairfield County,
have hired Joel Beers, an able bodied Man, to Inlist himself

400 History of Stratford.

to serve during the present war between the American States
and Great Britain, in one of the sixteen Battallions raised and
commanded by Samuel B. Webb, Esqr.

"per me Joseph Walker, Lieu. Sd. Reg."

Mr. Nathan B. McEwen gave the following, told to him
by his father:

" In the war of the Revolution my grandfather and great
uncle Daniel McEwen owned land in the Great Neck, near
Stratford Point, and fearing they might be taken prisoners,
when British vessels were on the Sound or by boats coming
from Long Island for that purpose, they placed my father,
then a small boy, on Round Hill — the highest land on the
Neck — to watch for any vessel that might land, and give the
alarm. Many a tedious hour, he said, he spent there for that
purpose.

" At one time there came two vessels and cruised off and
on most of the day. The town was alarmed and the militia
were called out, and a small gun which in derision was called
the Glister pipe, was taken down the neck to oppose the land-
ing of the British.

" While there a squall came up sudden and struck the
brig Kingfisher, which immediately sank. Then a great
shout went up from those on shore. Her masts being out of
water the crew took refuge in the riging. It was not known
whether any were lost except two men they had taken pris-
oners at Branford, and their bodies drifted ashore near where
they were taken prisoners."

A Traditionary Story ivell authenticated.

During the Revolution there was much contraband traffic
between Connecticut and Long Island, where the British sol-
diers were quartered much of the time, which was very profit-
able if the parties were not detected, and so much so that
loyal men would sometimes engage in it. Many fast rowing
boats were kept for this purpose, so many that it was difficult
to obtain witnesses against anyone, because nearly all boat-
men were interested, and they were seldom caught except by
government boats employed for that purpose.

Revolutionary War. 40 1

In one case," in the month of March, the weather being
fine, several young men— John Thompson, William South-
worth, William Beers, and others, hired a sailor by the name
of Crowell, who came in with a boat of codfish from the east,
and Nathan Gorham, another sailor, and started on a trip, of
the kind which was called Corderoy. The name was in con-
sequence of the kind of cloth obtained in exchange for the
truck carried over.

They went over in the night and did their trading in the
forenoon of the next day, and came back in the afternoon near
evening. Arriving near the north shore of the Sound, they
saw a government boat beating off and on at the mouth of
Stratford harbor, and therefore kept off in the Sound waiting
to run in under cover of darkness. But unfortunately, a
snow squall came up, and they were compelled to run before
it, the wind blowing very hard, the sea high and frequently
breaking into the boat.

Crowell and Gorham, clothed with heavy pea jackets, sat
in the stern of the boat and thereby breaking off much of the
sea, each holding an oar to steer the boat, soon became coated
with ice which kept them warm, while the others bailed the
boat, suffering with the cold.

They thus scud the boat nearly to the east end of Long
Island, where they run ashore. Some of them went for a
light and on returning found Beers frozen to death. Crowell's
and Gorham's pea-jackets were so frozen that it was neces-
sary for them to get out of and leave them where they sat.
The snow having become deep there were only two of them
able to reach a house, where they found a gang of men on a
carouse, who at once went and helped bring in the^others,
safely, although some had frozen hands, except Beers, who
was dead.

After staying there until they were in condition to return
home, and having rewarded their preservers with goods they
had purchased, they returned home safely, but found their
friends had given them up as lost.

William Beers was a young man, just out of his appren-

13 Manuscript of the late Nathan B. McEwen.

402 History of Stratford.

ticeship, but twenty-one years of age, having worked in a
warm shoe shop all winter and therefore could not endure
the cold.

John Thompson, the father of Joseph Thompson, lost the
ends of his thumb and fingers.

A Great Jubilee Day in North Stratford.

"The 26th day of May, 1783, the inhabitants of North
Stratford set apart as a day of Public Rejoicing for the late
publications of peace. At one o'clock, P. M., the people be-
ing convened at the Meeting House, public worship was
opened by singing. The Rev. Mr. Beebee then made a
prayer well adapted and suitable for the occasion. They
then sung a Psalm. Mr. Lewis Beebee, a student in Yale
College, made an oration with great propriety. The congre-
gation then sung an anthem. The Rev. Mr. Beebee, then re-
quested the Ladies to take their seats prepared on an emi-
nence for their reception when they walked in procession,
and upwards of 300 being seated the committee who were
appointed to wait on them supplied their table with neces-
saries for refreshments. In the meantime the two companies
of malitia being drawn up performed many maneuvers, and
firing by plattoons, genP volleys and street firing, and the
artillery discharging their cannon between each volley with
much regularity and accuracy. After which a stage was pre-
pared in the center and the following toasts were given :

ist. The United States in Congress Assembled.

2d. Gen^ Washington and the brave Officers and soldiers
of his command.

3d. Our Faithful and Illustrious Allies.

4th. The Friendly Powers of Europe.

5th. The Governor and Company of the State of Connect-
icut.

6th. May the present peace prove a glorious one and last
forever.

7th. May tyranny and despotism sink, and rise no more.

8th. May the late war prove an admonition to Great
Britain, and the present peace teach its inhabitants their true
interests.

Revolnttoiiary War. 403

9th. The Navy of the United States of America.

loth. May the Union of these States be perpetual niid
uninterrupted.

nth. May our Trade and Navii^ation Extend to both
Indies and the Balance be found in our favour.

I2th. May the American Flag always be a sccjurge to
tyrants.

13th. May the Virtuous Daughters of America bestow
their favours only on those who have Courage to defend
them.

14th. May Vermont be received into the Federal Union
and the Green Mountain Boys flourish."

"At the end of each toast a cannon was discharged.
" The whole was conducted with the greatest decency
and every mind seemed to show satisfaction."

CHAPTER XVI.

AFTER THE WAR.

ONG was the struggle for the Independence
of the United States, and immensely great
was the victory. Lord Cornwallls surren-
dered his army and navy on the 19th of
October, 1781, which was the virtual close
of the war, although peace was not lawfully
proclaimed'until after the treaty was signed
by the King, September 3, 1783, a prelim-
inary treaty having been signed November
30, 1782.

Naturally it might be expected that the
spirit and enterprise of the people, by such
a seven years' struggle, would be broken and
greatly reduced, but the contrary were the
precise facts, notwithstanding the fact that
the waste and death resulting from the war
had been very great. This statement is warranted by the
doings of the inhabitants in the town meeting, and by subse-
quent history. Before the war closed, the increase of num-
bers and the prosperity of the people are manifested in the
following action to divide the township:

" March 20, 1780. The meeting then took into considera-
tion the expediency of dividing the town into two townships,
and voted that on condition that they could agree on a proper
line of division they would apply to the General Assembly
for the privilege of being made and established into two
townships, and thereupon Messrs. Mr. Nathan Birdsey, Dan-
iel Judson, Esqr., Mr. Joseph Curtiss, Col. Samuel Whiting,
Samuel Adams, Esqr., Maj. Agur Judson, Elisha Mills, Esqr.,
Capt.jNathan Booth, Capt. Samuel Blakeman, Capt. Benja-

Dividing the Toiunship, 405

min Nichols, Abraham Brinsmade, Esqr., Mr. Stephen Mid-
dlebrook, Capt. John Sherwood, Capt. Zechariah Coe, Stephen
Burroughs, Esqr., Daniel Bennitt, Esqr., Mr. Silas Nichols,
Mr. Judson Curtiss, and Mr. Zechariah Summers were ap-
pointed a committee to view and affix a line where it shall be
most convenient to divide the town into two townships and
make report to this meeting at their next adjournment."

The next year another committee was appointed lor the
same purpose, and upon their report, which was to divide the
town by a line running east and west, setting off six miles in
width of the north end of the township for a new town, a
protest was made, and a delegation was appointed to go to
the General Assembly and oppose the petition prepared to
be sent to that body, and here the matter ended.

Soon after the surrender of Cornwallis, that is, December
31, 1781, another effort was made for a new township.

" After much debate it was finally motioned and unani-
mously voted that the parish of New Stratford and that part
of North Fairfield parish that belongs to Stratford and such
part of the Northerly part of North Stratford parish as may
be agreed on by and between the said parishes aforesaid, be
set off for a separate distinct town."

This proposition was not granted by the Legislature, but
it reveals the spirit and courage of progress.

The next year a proposition was brought before the town
to allow a dam and mill to be built on the Pequonnock river,
which resulted, some years later, in the establishment of the
Berkshire mills.'

William Pixleef the son of Peter and grandson of
William, one of the early settlers on Old Mill green, was a
man of good standing, owned the old Pixlee homestead, and

' Dec. 30, 1782. On motion made by William Pixlee, showing to this meet-
ing that there was a very convenient place to erect a tide mill on Pequonnock
River, joining his home lot, which would be very serviceable to the town and at
Great service to the public in general ; and asked the advice and approbation of
this meeting in said motion ; Voted that they have no objections . against the erect-
ing a mill at the place proposed in case no damage be done thereby to the public
by obstructing the navigation in said river ; nor any private injur}- to the property
of any private person.
27

4o6 History of Stratford.

in the proposition to build this mill was following out the
enterprise of his grandfather, who was a spirited, energetic
man.

Mr. Pixlee built his mill, in all probability, and a bridge
across the Pequonnock river, and opened a road or highway
from near his dwelling at Old Mill Green down to it, it being
the street now known as the Huntington road, for, in a town
vote in March, 1792, the selectmen were authorized "to em-
ploy persons to keep in good repair the bridges called Pixlee's
Bridge and Benjamin's Bridge;" Pixlee's bridge being at
what has been since called Berkshire Mills.

On January 9, 1786, another proposition for town im-
provement was accepted by the town, which was known
several years as Benjamin's Bridge.

" Voted, that upon consideration that a highway is
opened through the Newfield to the Old Mill Creek and a
good substantial cart-bridge erected across said creek and a
highway opened to New Pasture Point by John Benjamin
and others by the last day of December next, then said Ben-
jamin and others shall be entitled to receive one-half penny on
the pound out of the 2^ tax laid on the list of 1785, of the
town treasurer."

The bridge was built and the road opened, which is now
the Stratford road, and after six years the town, in March,
1792, granted another privilege in conjunction with it.

*• Upon application of Joseph Walker of Stratford, pray-
ing liberty for the exclusive privilege of the salt water River
or Creek running on the east side of New Pasture Point,
being the same over which Benjamin's Bridge so-called is
erected, for the purpose of building a Grist Mill :

Voted, That liberty is granted the said Walker, his heirs
and assigns forever, for the purpose aforesaid ; provided that
said mill and dam be erected within seven years from this
date ; and also provided the mill dam does not injure the
bridge erected across said river or creek; and also provided
he makes all damages good to private property."

Three years later, some of the people of Stratford insti-
tuted measures for depriving General Walker of this privi-
lege, and he being an old Revolutionar}^ soldier, and having a

The Old Yellozv Mill. 407

will of his own, determined not to be defeated. He had then
expended much money and time, and therefore petitioned the
legislature, at the October session of 1795, for action on the
matter, with advantageous result:

" Upon the petition of Joseph Walker of Stratford, in the
County of Fairfield, showing to this Assembly that the inhab-
itants of the town of Stratford at a legal town meeting held
on the 5th day of March, 1792, granted to him, his heirs and
assigns the exclusive privilege of a certain salt water creek or
arm of the sea on the easterly side of the Newfield Harbour
in said town, being known and called by the name of Old
Mill Creek, for the purpose of erecting a tide mill, and that
he has proceeded to improve said grant, and laid out and
expended large sums of money in prosecuting said business,
and that he now finds some individuals in said town object to
his proceedings to improve said grant, praying relief as per
petition on file :

Resolved by this Assembly, That said grant of said town
of Stratford, as aforesaid, made to the petitioner be and the
same is hereby ratified and confirmed ; and liberty is hereby
granted to the petitioner, his heirs and assigns to erect and
build a dam across said creek or river, at or near Benjamin's
Bridge, in such manner as to use and employ the mill or mills
that may be there erected to the greatest advantage ; pro-
vided, nevertheless, that nothing in said resolve shall be con-
strued to bar said town of Stratford from compelling the
petitioner, his heirs and assigns, to repair any injury he or
they may do said Benjamin's Bridge by erecting said mill-
dam ; and also provided that nothing in this resolve contained
shall be construed to bar or affect the right which an}^ indi-
vidual may have to any action against the petitioner, his heirs
and assigns in case they are damnified by the overflowing of
the waters occasioned by said dam."

Old Mill creek is what is now called the Yellow Mill-
pond and Pembroke lake, and extended northward to Old
Mill Green. The elder residents of Stratford remember
when vessels of considerable size were built at the head of
the creek and floated down and over the causeway, at high
water, to the harbor.

4o8 History of Stratford,

The tide in this creek always set back to Old Mill until
the railroad culvert was built, which stopped the water from
flowing above that point.

This mill, built by Gen. Joseph Walker, had a number of
owners, the last of whom was Mr. George F. Cook, and he
was the unfortunate loser when it was set afire and burned
down in 1884.

The mill was painted yellow, and had been known many
years as the Yellow Mill.

The desire for a new township or townships continued
with increased interest and effort and in 1786, in town meet-
ing, they gave consent that Ripton, North Stratford and New
Stratford might become separate towns, and in 1789, Ripton
and New Stratford were made a separate township.

In August, 1787, the following action as to the ferry road
was taken : " Voted, that the selectmen procure an highway
at New Pasture Point to accommodate the Ferry, and if they
cannot agree with the owners of the land, to apply to the
County Court for the purpose aforesaid."

The road was secured, and passed around the point from
where the Steel Works now stand, along the shore to Benja-
min's Bridge.

The only public road or highway coming to this Point
was what is now Pembroke street, which had been in use
probably more than one hundred years.

The Congregational Church and Meeting-house.

The third meeting-house in Stratford village had served
the congregation well about forty years, was in good repair,
when, on the afternoon of June 17, 1785, it was burned to the
ground, being struck by lightning. This edifice stood on
Watch-house Hill, and the destruction of it, so soon after the
Revolutionary War, was a great calamity to the society and
people.

Some description of this unfortunate occurrence, and the
building of a new house, has been preserved by the thought-
fulness of one of Stratford's own citizens, having been writ-
ten in an Almanac for that same year, which is now just one
hundred years ago ; and it is here produced with pleasure.

Burning the Meeting-house. 409

In this house Mr. Gold had preached about eight years,
and Mr. Izrahiah VVetmore twenty-seven years, but had re-
signed his pastorate five years before, and Mr. Stephen W.
Stebbins had preached in it about one vear when it was
burned.

The burning of the Stratford Meeting-house as recorded by
John Brooks.

"On Friday, the 17th day of June, 1785, at about 6 o'clock
in the afternoon, Stratford meeting-house was struck with
lightning and within about one hour and a half it was totally
reduced to ashes. The fire broke out from the steeple, round
the plate on the south side, all in an instant. The house on
that side was one continued blaze instantaneously. The
quantity of fire contained in the clap (;r explosion, was sup-
posed to be very great, and all efforts to save the house was
in vain.

" The Society having collected timber and other materials
erected another house of the same dimensions as the former
and placed it on Hiell's hill, so-called. The frame of this
new house they commenced raising on Friday, the 17th of
May, 1786, and finished it on Saturday the i8th at about sun-
down.

" The society with united zeal proceeded with this build-
ing and completed, painted, glazed and plastered it on Satur-
day, the nth day of November, in just 25 weeks after it was
erected; and on the Sunday following, Nov. 12, 1786, the
congregation met in it in the forenoon for the purpose of
public worship which was conducted by the Rev. Stephen
W. Sebbins, who introduced the services by singing the I02d
Psalm, 2d part. Next in succession followed a very pertinent
extempore prayer suitable to the occasion and dedication of
said house. The ist text was from the 107 psalm at the 7th
verse. The subject matter of the sermon was upon the duty
of attending the public worship and other ordinances of
Christ's Church, with becoming reverance and fear; and the
sacrament of the Lord's supper was administered the same
forenoon.

" In the afternoon the service began at 3 o'clock, intro-

4IO History of Stratford.

duced in the usual manner, and a sermon delivered by the
Rev. Mr. Stebbins before a very numerous audience composed
of the two Societies, in this place, unitedly convened with
their respective pastors — the Rev. Mr. Learning, the Episco-
pal Rector — and a number of gentlemen from the other
parishes of the town. The sermon was on the subject of
God's recording his name in his temple ; and William Brooks
had a child baptized by the name of Anna," the first to whom
that ordinance was administered in said house.'"

This was a commodious edifice, located near the site of
the present house of worship of the same society, and it con-
tinued in use until the one now standing was built in 1858.
Of this building a good picture is preserved, showing it to
have been an imposing structure for the times, built with
much skill of architecture and workmanship. This is espe-
cially exhibited by the representation of the interior of the
house. There were doors on the south side and the two ends,
it being the same style of meeting-house that prevailed for a
hundred years or more in this State, the first one of the kind
having been built at Farmington.

When this house was to be torn down, and the carpen-
ters had commenced their work, Mr. Rufus W. Bunnell, on
the morning of November i, 1858, stepped into the front door
to take a last look at the familiar seats and walls, when the
thought struck him — yes, struck him — to make a drawing as
it then appeared. This he did, on an old scrap of paper, so
perfectly that the wood engraver' has produced the accom-
panying finely-finished illustration of the sacred old inclosure.
The paneling, table, carpet, windows, pulpit and sounding-
board over it are to be seen in life-like vividness, as they
were when the congregation last departed from that long
familiar place. The sounding-board was finished in a more
ornamental style than was usual, by the dome-like paneling

''■ The family record says Polly.

* This record was made by John Brooks in the back part of a Connecticut
Register for 1785 — Green's first Register — the calculations being made by Nathan
DaboU, of the academy in Plainfield. (Manuscript of the Rev. B. L. Swan.)

^ Mr. John E. Sweet, of Bridgeport.

The Sou I Kit iig-boa rd.

INTERIOR OF THE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH TAKEN NOVEMBER I, 185S.

412 History of Stratford.

above it, forming a mucii more imposing appearance than
was customary in the meeting-houses of that day. It was not
the intention of the artist to represent the pews, but only the
main aisle and the side of the house on which the pulpit
stood.

It is with much satisfaction that the accompanying cut is
secured for this work.

This was the fourth house of worship for this, the old
society, and in 1858 they commenced the fifth, which was
completed in modern style inside and out, and was dedicated
on the 27th of October, 1859, ^^^ ornament to the village, and .
a pleasant house of worship.

The Manual of this Congregational Church of Strat-
ford is a more than usually historical, extensive and val-
uable work of the kind, having been published in 188 1, con-
taining 84 pages. From it are taken the following sketches
of Ministers and list of Deacons:

**jRei?. Izrahiah Wetmore/ the third son of Rev. Izra-

hiah and Sarah (Booth) VVetmore, born August 30, 1729, at
Stratford, was graduated at Yale College in 1748, received
the degree of A.M. from the same institution in 1751 ; studied
theology and entered the ministry ; was settled pastor at
Stratford from May, 1753, until 1780, at Trumbull from 1785
until 1798.

" He preached the Election Sermon before the Legisla-
ture of Connecticut in 1773 ; also a sermon in pamphlet form
at the ordination of David Lewis Beebe to the pastorate of
the first Church of Christ at VVoodbridge, February 23, 1791 ;
and other autograph sermons still preserved.

" He was warmly attached to the cause of Independence,
and it is related of him that, 'When the news of the suri'en-
der of Lord Cornwallis to General Washington reached
Stratford it was on Sunday and during worship. Word was
immediately taken to the pulpit, while parson Wetmore was
delivering his discourse. Straightening himself to his full
height, and making known the intelligence, he said : It is no

* This sketch is taken from the Wetmore Genealogy.

Biographical Sketches. 413

place for boisterous demonstrations in the house of God. but
we may, in giving three cheers, only go through with the
motions.' "

^'Rev, Stephen William Stehhins, son of Stej^hen
Stebbins, was born in East Long Meadow, Mass., June 26,
1758, graduated at Yale College in 1781, and ordained pastor
of this Church, July 7, 1784. Just before his ordination, the
Church made declaration of independency and reaffirmed the
half-way covenant. He was dismissed in August, 1813, and
afterwards settled in West Haven.

**Mev. MattJieiv M. Duttoit was born in VVatertown,
Conn., June 3, 1783, graduated at Yale College in 1808, and
was ordained in Stratford, September 20, 18 14, having de-
clined an urgent call from the Church in Portsmouth, N. H.,
Mr. Dutton continued pastor, universally esteemed and be-
loved, until the autumn of 182 1, when he accepted the appoint-
ment of Professor of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy
in Yale College. He died July 17, 1825.

" When Mr. Dutton was called to the Church, its spiritual
condition was very low. Various causes, long operating, had
greatly adulterated the doctrinal belief of many members.
Some of the most prominent had become believers in Univer-
salism. The enforcement of discipline, for errors in belief,
had become wholly impracticable. Mr. Dutton, as a condi-
tion of accepting the call, stipulated for an open, thorough
re-confession by the Church, of sound doctrine, and an assent
to a solemn covenant to enforce discipline. The Confession
of Faith and the Covenant now in use were, at that time,
adopted, and only those who would assent to it were enrolled
as members of the Church.

" Mr. Dutton's ministry was blessed to the spiritual life
and efficiency of the Church. In 1821, on one Sunday, seventy
persons were added to the Church.

"-Ke«^. Joshua Leavittf 1>.2>., was born in Heth,
Franklin county, Mass., Sept. 8, 1794, graduated at Yale Col-
lege, in September, 1814, and ordained pastor of this Church
in February, 1825. He was dismissed in 1828, to become the
Agent of the American Seamen's Friend Society in New

414 History of Stratford.

York. After that he was connected with the religious and
secular press, and also with several institutions of Christian
benevolence and moral reform. He died in 1873.

'^Mev, Thotnas Rohbins was born in Norfolk, Conn.,
August II, 1777, entered Yale College in 1792, and at the
close of the Junior year he left and joined the Senior class in
Williams College, where he was graduated in August, 1796.
In September following he. took the same degree, B.A., in
his former class at Yale. In 1803 he was ordained Missionary
of the Home Missionary Society, to the northern part of
Ohio, where he labored until impaired health obliged him to
return East. In May, 1809, he was installed pastor over the
Church in East Windsor, Conn., where he continued until
1827, when he was dismissed at his own request. In Febru-
ary, 1830, he was installed pastor of this Church, and on
September 9th, the following year, he was dismissed. He
removed to Metapoisett, Mass., where for fourteen years he
labored as pastor, and then resigning his charge became
librarian of the Connecticut Historical Society at Hartford.
He died at Colebrook, September 13, 1856, in the 80th year
of his age.

**J?ev. Frederick TV. Chajynian was born in Canfield,
Trumbull county, Ohio, November 17, 1806; graduated at
Yale College in 1828, and ordained pastor of this Church,
September 5, 1832. He was dismissed April 16, 1839, ^"^
subsequently settled over the Church at Glastonbury. He
died in 1876.

^^Hev. Williani Bouton Weed was born in Canaan,
March 22, 181 1, graduated at Yale College in 1830, and for
several years devoted himself to teaching. He was converted
under a sermon which he heard at Chilicothe, Ohio, from the
text, ' Be ye thankful.' In 1836, he began the study of the
law, but abandoned it for the ministry and was ordained at
Stratford pastor of this Church, December 4, 1839.

" During his ministry, which was a most successful one,
Mr. Weed received many flattering calls to other pastorates.
At length, thinking that a new field of labor might conduce
to the invigoration of his enfeebled health, he accepted the

Biographical Sketches. 415

invitation of the First Church in Norwalk, Conn., where he
was installed June 27, 1855. He died December 3, i860.

Mr. Weed was held in prominent regard by the ministers
and churches of the State, as a man of eminent ability, and
his teachings are gratefully remembered by those who were
permitted to receive them. A book of his sermons, to which
is prefixed a biographical notice, has been published.

^^Rev. Joseph R. JPafje was born in New Brunswick,
N. J., and was ordained pastor of the Presbyterian Church in
Perry, Wyoming county, N. Y., February 6, 1839, fron" which
place he came to Stratford, where he was installed pastor
February 11, 1857. In October, 1858, he was dismissed, and
soon assumed again the pastoral charge of his former Church
at Perry. In June, 1868, he removed to East Avon, where,
for about five years, he was acting pastor of the Presbyterian
Church. In November, 1872, he removed to Rochester,
where he served as missionary of the Rochester Presbytery.
In February, 1875, he was installed pastor of the Presbyterian
Church in Brighton, N. Y. In 1876, the degree of D.D. was
conferred on him by Hamilton College.

Rev, Renjctniin L. Sivan was born in Medford, Mass.,
July 31, 1813; entered College in the Junior Class, but was
providentially hindered from completing the course. He
received the honorary degree of A.M. from Yale in 1844.
He was ordained pastor of the Church in Fair Haven, Conn.,
in 1836; was installed pastor of the Church in Litchfield,
Conn., in 1846. He was acting pastor at the South Church
in Bridgeport, from June, 1856, to November, 1858. In
September, 1858, he accepted the invitation of this Church,
and was installed in October, 1858, and dismissed in 1863.
In the spring of 1866, he became pastor of the Presbyterian
Church in Oyster Bay, N. Y., where he labored until the
Autumn of 1875, vvhen domestic bereavement and ill health
obliged him to resign his pastorate.

Rev, Lewis Charpiot was installed pastor of this
Church May 25, 1864, and dismissed April 12, 1866.

Rev, Williani K. Hall was born in Boston, Mass.,
Nov. 4, 1836, was graduated at Yale College in 1859; pursued

4i6 History of Stratford.

his theological studies in New Haven and Berlin, Germany,
and was ordained October 17, 1862, chaplain of the Connecti-
cut Volunteers. He was installed pastor of this Church,
October 24, 1866, and the relation was dissolved at his request
in May, 1872. In January, 1873, he accepted a call from the
First Presbvterian Church in Newburgh, N. Y. He was
chosen moderator of the New York Synod in 1878, and in
the following year was appointed by the Secretary of War
as one of the Board of Visitors at West Point.

Hev, Frank S. Fitch was born in Geneva, Ohio, Feb-
ruary 24, 1846, He was graduated at Oberlin College in
1870, and at Yale Divinity School in 1873. He was ordained
pastor of this Church June 17, 1873, and resigned in October,
1878, and on November 21st of the same year was installed
pastor of the Seventh Street Congregational Church, Cincin-
nati, Ohio.

Mev. S. H. Dana was installed pastor March 12, 1879,
and dismissed December 31, 1881.

Hev, Joel Stone Ives^ son of the Rev. Alfred E., and
Harriet P. (Stone) Ives, was born in Colebrook, Conn., Dec.
5, 1847; graduated at Amherst College, July 16, 1870, and
from Yale Divinity School, May 14, 1874; licensed to preach
by the New Haven Centre Association, May 4, 1873, and or-
dained the tenth pastor of the first church in East Hampton,
September 29, 1874. From this church he was dismissed
October 31, 1883 ; began to preach in Stratford November i,
and was installed pastor November 20, 1B83.

He married, July 15, 1874, Emma S., daughter of Mr.
Joel Ives Butler, of Meriden, Conn. Their children are
Anne Emma, Mabel Sarah, died in 1879, and Joel Butler.

This Church has given to the Ministry the following named
persons from her nievibers :

^^Rev, Benjamin JBlakenian, son of the first pastor,
was graduated at Harvard College in 1663. Closed a min-
istry at Maiden, Mass., in 1678. He afterwards preached at
Scarborough, and was subsequently in secular business.

Biographical Sketches. 417

Bev, Charles Cliamicey, son of the pastor Israel, was
the first pastor ot the Stratfield Church and Society from
1695 to 1714, he having- preached for that people considerably if
not regularly two or more years before 1695. He died in 17 14.

Itei\ Isaac Chauncey, son of the pastor Israel
Chauncey, was pastor at Hadley, Mass., from 1696 to 1745,
when he died.

Rev. Nathaniel Chauncey, nephew of Israel Chaun-
cey, the pastor, was the first recorded graduate of Yale
College, and was pastor at Durham, Conn., from 171 1 to 1756,
when he died.

Hev, John Beach, son of Isaac Beach, of Stratford,
was the pastor of the Congregational Church at Newtown
from 1725 to 1732, and Rector of the Episcopal Church of the
same place from 1732 to 1782, when he died.

Rev, John Goodsell, first pastor of the Church on
Greenfield Hill from 1726 to 1756, when he died. He was
only twenty years of age when he settled in the parish, the
Church being organized at the time of his settlement, with
twenty-six members, and at the close of the year 1741 the
number was one hundred and sixty.

Rev* Jereiniah Curtis was the first pastor at South-
ington, and labored there from 1728 to 1755. He died there
in 1795, aged eighty-nine years.

Rev. Jonathan Ingersoll was pastor at Ridgefield,
from 1740 to 1778, when he died.

Rev. Mark Leavenworth was pastor at VVaterbury
from 1740 to 1797, when he died.

Rev. Nathan Rirdsey was pastor at West Haven
from 1742 to 1758, when from domestic considerations he
retired to his homestead at Oronoke in Stratford, where he
died in 18 18, aged 103 years 5 months and 9 days. When one
hundred years old he made the prayer at the ordination of
Mr. Button. He had twelve children, and at his death his
grandchildren had numbered seventy-six, his great grand-
children one hundred and sixty-three. The Rev. Joseph P.
Thompson, D.D., was a descendant.

41 8 History of Stratford.

Hev, David Jtidson was pastor of the Congregational
Church at Newtown from 1743 until 1776, when he died.

Hev, Me^ekiah Goldf the son of the pastor, was pastor
at Cornwall from 1755 until 1790, when he died.

Sev, JEdefi SurrougJis was pastor ot a Church at
South Killingly, from 1760 until 1763, then pastor at Hanover,
N. H., from 1772 until 1809. He preached at Hartford, Vt.,
from 1809 until 1813, when he died, aged sevent3^-five years.
The Rev. E. B. Foster was a descendant.

Mev. Andrew Jiidson was pastor at Eastford from
1778 until 1804, when he died.

Mev, Nehemiah Beach Bearilsley was ordained in
1816 and died in 1868.

Bev. Sjtencer F. Beard was ordained in 1829, and
died at Andover, Mass. in 1876. The Rev. William H. Beard
and the Rev. Edwin S. Beard are his sons.

Bev, William Miissell, son of Alden and Sarah (Nor-
ton) Russell, was born in Stratford, February 15, 181 5, grad-
uated at Yale College in 1837, and Yale Divinity School in
1 841. In 1842 he was settled in Wakeman, Ohio, where he
remained three years. In January, 1846, he commenced
preaching for the Congregational Church at Easthampton,
Conn., and on October 14th was settled there as the seventh
pastor of that Church, remaining until October 11, 1855, when
he was dismissed. The next year he was installed pastor of
the Second Congregational Church of New Ipswich, N. H.,
where after remaining three years he found the climate too
severe for his health and was dismissed. In i860, he became
pastor of the Church in Sherman, Conn., and remained three
years, at which time an asthmatic affection of long standing
obliged him to relinquish the pulpit.

Since that time he has resided in Washington, D. C, in
the service of the Government.

He married, May 10, 1842, Sarah Elizabeth Brown, of
New Haven. Their children are Hattie Hamlin, b. Mar. i,
1844; Sarah Norton, b. July 6, 1847, ^^^ Minnie Williams, b.
Nov. 22, 1851.

Biographical Sketches. 419

Mev, Phineas BJakenian, ordained in 1843.

Bev. Charles Henry liusfteU^ ordained in 1S59.

Bev, Henry Samuel Bartiuin was j^raduated at Vale
College in 1862 and became a Missionary of the A. B. C. F. M.
in Persia in 1867.

Bev, Samuel F. Emerson was graduated at Yale Col-
lege in 1872 and Union Theological Seminary in 1879.

Bev, Joyce CiM'tis, son of Solomon and Jerusha (Walk-
er) Curtis, was born in 1787 and died in 1861.

Bev, Hezekiah Gold Vffovd^ son of Samuel and Abi-
gail (Gold) Ufford, was born in 1779, graduated at Yale Col-
lege in 1806, and died, January 23, 1863, aged 84 years.

George Wni. Jiidson, son of George T. Judson, was
graduated at Yale College in 1884, and is now in Yale Divinit}'
School.

Elder and Deacons of this Chnrch.

" Philip Groves was the only Ruling Elder in this Church
from near its organization to his death in 1676. He was Dep-
uty to the General Court from this town as early as 1652, and
in 1654 was chosen Assistant and as such was * empowered to
marry persons.'

"John Birdsey is referred to as Deacon in 167S. He
died in 1690.

" Timothy VVilcockson is referred to as a Deacon in 1678.
He died in 1714.

" Thomas Welles is mentioned as Deacon in 1707. He
died in 1721.

" Robert Walker is named as a Deacon in 1722. He died

in 1743.

" John Thompson is also mentioned as a Deacon in 1722.

He died in 1765.

" Job Peck is styled Deacon on his grave stone, although
no record of his appointment has been .seen. He died in
1782.

420 History of Stratford.

"Elnathan Wheeler, appointed in 1751, and died in 1761.
Isaiah Brown, appointed in 1755, and died in 1793.
Ebenezer Coe, appointed in 1784, and died in 1820.
Nathan McEwen, appointed in 1791, and died in 1810.
Samuel Ufford, appointed in 1801, and died in 1821.
Agur Curtiss, appointed in 1801, and died in 1838.

Philo Curtiss, appointed in , and died in 1852.

Agur Curtiss, appointed in , and died in 1868.

David P. Judson, appointed in 1837, and died in 1869.

Agur T. Curtiss, appointed in 1858.

Lewis Beers, appointed in 1858, and died in 1870.

Charles C. Welles, appointed in 1867.

Samuel T. Houghton, appointed in 1877.

Samuel E. Curtis, appointed in 1877.

Sketches of Prominent Men.

Hon* William Sainuel Johnson^ son of the Rev.

Samuel Johnson, D.D., was born in Stratford, October 7,
1727, and died November 14th, 1819, aged 92 years and two
months. His mother was Charity, widow of Benjamin Nicoll,
of Islip, L. I., and daughter of Richard Floyd, of Brookhaven,
L. I. He was fitted for college by his father and was grad-
uated at Yale in 1744.

After this he pursued his studies in several classical lines
while fitting himself for the profession of the law, upon which
he soon entered, and gave, at once, much promise of a re-
markably successful and honorable life work.

He married, at the age of twenty-two years, Ann,
daughter of William Beach, of Stratford, in 1749, and made
his residence in his native town.

In 1754, he was commissioned as lieutenant in the Strat-
ford militia company.

In 1 761, he was chosen Representative for Stratford, and
again in 1765 ; and the next year he was elected an Assistant
at the General Court.

When the first Continental Congress assembled in New
York City in 1765, the representatives in that body, from
Connecticut, were William Samuel Johnson, Eliphalet Dyer
and David Rowland.

Biographical Sketches. 421

The next January 23, 1766, the University of Oxford,
England, conferred on him the degree of Doctor of Laws.

His next service to the Colony of Connecticut was in
reference to its title to land obtained of the Mohegan Indians,
concerning which the Rev. E. E. Beardslcy, D.D., makes the
following brief statement :"

" In February, 1766, Connecticut was cited to appear
before the King and Lords in Council, to answer in a matter
which had been kept in agitation for nearly seventy years,
and concerned the title to a large tract of land that Lieut.
Governor Mason was appointed to obtain for the Colony,
from the Mohegan Indians. He took the deed to himself,
and the fact remained unnoticed until after his death, when
the property was claimed by his heirs for services rendered
to the Indians, as their agent. It was a part of their suit,
too, to oppose the claim of Connecticut under pretense of
protecting the rights of the Indians ; and they appealed from
the legal decisions against them in this country to the highest
tribunal in England : while the title of the land was valuable,
the most important question was one which affected the char-
tered rights of the Colony ; for had they succeeded, * the
conduct of Mason would have been adjudged fraudulent, and
the British Government would have made it a ground for
taking away the charter.'

" Dr. Johnson was appointed by the General Assembly
at its October session in 1766, to proceed to England and
defend in that case. In obedience to this direction he arrived
in London on the 8th of February," expecting to remain
there a few months at longest; but it was nearly five years
before he returned to his home.

His long stay in England, in which he was largely suc-
cessful in retaining for the Colony the right of soil to the
Mohegan lands, enabled him to become thoroughly ac-
quainted with the public sentiment in that country towards
the Colonies, which knowledge was of great service to this
country after his return, when the Revolutionary conilict
began.

* Life and Times of William Samuel Johnson, 35.

422 Hist07-y of Stratford.

At the May session of the General Assembly, in 1772,
Dr. Johnson was appointed one of the Judges of the Superior
Court, which position allowed him favorable opportunities to
continue his literary pursuits and correspondences which he
had industriously improved up to this time, and which course
he followed to the close of life.

In 1774, he was elected one of three to represent Connec-
ticut in the Congress of the Colonies to meet in Philadelphia
on the 5th of September, but having accepted previously an
appointment as arbitrator on the estate of Van Renselaer of
Albany, he was excused from serving and his place was filled
by Silas Dean.

After the Declaration of Independence he remained at
home most of the time except as related on page 421 of
this book, maintaining, in regard to public acts, neutral
ground to a considerable extent in relation to the great con-
flict for the liberty of the United States, until peace was
declared.

In 1782, he came prominently before the public in his
profession as an advocate in behalf of the State of Connecti-
cut, in the great trial of the claims of this State to the Sus-
quehanna lands in Pennsylvania.

From November, 1784, until May, 1787, he was a repre-
sentative in Congress, from his native State.

The delegates sent by the Connecticut Legislature to
form the Constitution of the United States, in 1787, consisted
of William Samuel Johnson, Roger Sherman, a signer of the
Declaration of Independence, and Oliver Ellsworth ; and in
this great work each of these men rendered distinguished
service.

While thus serving his country he was elected, on the
2 1 St of May, 1787, president of Columbia College in New
York City, which he accepted and removed his residence to
that place where he remained, serving with much honor,
until his resignation in the year 1800, when he retired to his
old home in Stratford.

Dr. Johnson was reared in the Episcopal Church and to
it he maintained his loyalty and devotion to the last, and as
such exerted a large influence in behalf of that Church in the
Colony and State of Connecticut and in the United States.

Biographical Sketches. ^23

His literary attainments and culture were amon^ the
most complete and attractive of any among Americans, and
his elegance of diction and charm of delivery were in few
cases, if any, surpassed in his day.

Adopting the Constitution.

The question of adopting the Constitution of the United
States excited great interest in Stratford, and at the town
meeting held to elect delegates to a State convention to rat-
ify or reject that instrument, there was much excitement,
debate and anxiety, there being considerable strong opposi-
tion to it. The town meeting meet in the town house but
adjourned to the meeting house, probably because of the
great number present.

By the favor of Professor Charles F. Johnson, of Trinity
College, Hartford, the following letter of Robert Charles
Johnson, son of Dr. Wm. Samuel Johnson, to his father, is,
upon solicitation, submitted to be published. This letter,
although from a young man of only twenty-one years, gives
some insight into the excitement and contest of that occasion,
and of what a sincere, earnest young person can do if wisely
trained, for it must be remembered that he had been greatly
favored in his advantages of education and in public society.
The letter was written to his father with no idea that it
would ever be seen by any other person.

"Stratford November 1787.
Honored Sir: This afternoon I spoke in the town meet-
ing. I observed the outlines of the declamation you read,
and chained down the attention of a numerous audience for
upwards of three-quarters of an hour. Silas Hubbell at the
begining of the debate made a motion, that as I had been
much with you, I should be requested to deliver mv senti-
ments of the Constitution. The proposition was laughed at
and rejected. I was then determined 1 would speak. JNIajor
[Joseph] Walker held me by the arm and said 1 should ruin
everything. I waited till the moderator called for the votes,
and then broke from him, jumped over the seats, mounted
the pulpit stairs and succeeded beyond my expectations.

424 History of Stratford.

equal to my wishes, and closed, with launching an empire on
the sea of glory,' amidst a general clap of hands. Every one
I met shook me by the hand and told me I was an honor to
Stratford. [Indeed he was.] Then I went to hand in my
vote, and the moderator — Major Judson — rose from his seat,
shook me by the hand, and said, he ' publickly thanked me
for the information and pleasure I had given, and that I was
an honor to Stratford.' The Selectmen unitedly requested
that I would preserve the train of my arguments, that they
might print it, for that ' it was a* pitty that they should be
lost after making such an impression.' Can I not now by
working the outlines of the declamation, and by close logical
reasons intermingled submit it to men of sense and confirm
my reputation ? Sir, please write me as soon as convenient,
as the Selectmen have already called on me for a copy of my
speech. You, sir,' and Esquire Mills are chosen. I should
certainly have been elected had not every one been per-
suaded from my information that you would attend. Esquire
Bennett and myself were equally balanced, and had I had
intriguing on my side should have carried it against Esquire
Mills. Forgive me this effusion of vanity."

In another letter to his brother who was in the Bermudas,
a few days later, Dec. 3d, he further reveals the spirit of the
occasion : " The new Constitution is almost the only subject
of conversation. A town meeting was called at Stratford for
the choice of delegates to the Constitutional Convention.
All our Stratford orators spoke and were heard with impa-
tience by a powerful opposition. Deacon Bennet was to be
the man known to be a violent opposer of the Constitution.
.... After I sat down the temper of the house seemed to
be changed, and they almost unanimously voted in my father
and Esquire Mills. The Constitution, we flatter ourselves,
will be adopted. The Pennsylvania convention is in favor of it.
In Connecticut a decided superiority. General Parsons says
he can engage to raise 15,000 volunteers who will stake their
lives and fortunes on the event. Delaware, it is thought,

■^ Dr. Johnson was then President of Columbia College, and hence was in
New York City.

Biographical Sketches. 425

will follow Pennsylvania, Massachusetts doubtful, but expect-
ed in favour. Virginia and Georgia in all probability, will
adopt. New York against. Rhode Island out of the c|ucs-
tion ; as much the scorn and derision of America as America
is of the rest of the world.

" If not accepted, America will in all probability be a
scene of anarchy and confusion. If adopted it will be some
time before peace and serenity prevail. I will sacrifice my
life in defence of it. 1 will wade up to my knees in blood
that it may be established."

Such were the perils over which sailed the ship of state,
and such the spirit of the young men who manned her ; a
spirit which has been manifested more grandly, if possible, in
recent days, in preserving the Union, for which the Fore-
fathers suffered so much.

• Capt, William Hirdsey, previous to 1762, owned and
lived in a house that had been his father's, which stood at the
foot of Main street, facing up the street. It was an old house.

In this year Mr. Birdse}' then built a fine house on the
northeast corner of the streets where now resides Dea. Sam-
uel E. Curtis.

Capt. William Birdsey married in 1745, Eunice Benjamin,
and was a wealthy, prosperous farmer, and not far from the
time the new house was built, the Rev. Samuel Peters married
his daughter.

Mr. Birdsey lived in this house until 1779 or '80, when the
discouragements as to the success of the Revolution were
very many and great; he, fearing if the British won the day
he should lose all his property, went over and joined the
British army on Long Island, where he remained until the
war was over. Then he returned to Stratford to find that the
government had confiscated his property, and that it was to
be sold at auction.

The people of Stratford, knowing him to have been a
very fine citizen, and true several years to the cause of Amer-
ican freedom, pitied him, and agreed among themselves not
to bid on certain portions of the property, at the sale, so as
to allow him to bid it in at a low-price. This was done and
he secured and retained the old house, and much of his land

426 History of Stratford.

which had been in the family from the first. It is said that at
the sale, one of his neighbors, Samuel Ufford, bid on one
piece of land that seemed quite desirable, but this created
such excitement that he came near being mobbed. Mr. Bird-
sey lived in the old house until his death.

In 1802, his son Everit Birdsey started to build a house
on the site of the old house fronting up Main street. But as
soon as he had removed the old building, the town authori-
ties appeared and laid the highway directly over the site
through the field southward, as it is at present, and in 1808,
Everit Birdsey built his house on the corner directly east of
the old site.

Abel JBeacJij in 1767, built the first house and barn on
Stratford Point. It stood about twenty rods west of the
lighthouse. His own residence was in the village across the
street from the site of the first meeting-house at Sandy
Hollow. He was a prominent man in business and enter-
prise.

Ziegrand Camioiif a merchant from New York City,
bought the house and estate of Abel Beach at Stratford Point,
about 1768, and Mr. Beach's homestead in the village east of
Sandy Hollow opposite the site of the first meeting-house.
This house was built by Nathan Beach, father of Abel, in
1722, who left it to his son Abel. Mr. Cannon bought also a
brig of Abel Beach, which he run to the West Indies.

Edward DeForest married a daughter of Legrand Can-
non, and to this daughter the father gave the house and land
at the Point, and Mr. DeForest lived there several years
until he killed his wife's slave-woman by stabbing her with a
pitchfork, which created much talk, but nothing was done
about it.*

Old Time Hospitality runs some risks not to be cov-
eted. The late Nathan B. McEwen left the following record
connected with his grandmother:

" The house known on Lindsley's Map as the Hon.
Robert Fairchild's was built, in 1770, by my great-grand-
father, Josiah Beers, for a good size homestead.

^ Manuscript of Nathan B. McEwen.

Biographical Skctc/ws. 427

" Tramps and travellers in those days had to find l(Ki<;iiis^
and food in private families when too poor to pay for thcni
at the Inn, which was easy to do, as it was considered an act
of charity to care for such.

" A poor man called on Mr. Beers, late in the day, tor food
and lodging, saying he was sick and unable to go any further,
and Mr. Beers took him into his home. The next morning
he was much worse and could not go. He had a fever and at
the end of about two weeks he died. Both Beers and his
wife took the fever, and died leaving four young children,
one son and three daughters.

" They had three uncles in good circumstances; each took
a girl to bring up, and the boy was put out to work, being
old enough to earn his living. The house and land were sold
to maintain and bring up the girls.

" My grandmother was taken by Stephen Porter, who
lived on the corner of Elm street and Michell's Lane in the
lower part of the village. The other girls were taken by
their uncles to Stepney in Monroe. Eunice married Stephen
French, and the other married John Summers Hawley, and
both raised a family.

" My grandmother, Sally, married Nathan Gorham. The
son William Beers, married and had children, Lewis and
Mary. He was a sailor and acquired some property."

Hon. Robert Walker was one of the most noted men
that Stratford ever produced. He was born in 1704 and died
in 1772, aged 68 years. The brief summary of his life as given
on his tombstone appears to have been very true and appro-
priate. " He sustained many important offices in civil life,
for many years before and at the time of his death. He was
one of his Majesty's Council for the Colony of Connecticut,
one of the Judges of the Superior Court, and a Colonel of
the Militia; all which offices he discharged with fidelity and
honor. He firmly believed and conscientiously practiced the
Christian religion; was a kind husband, a tender parent, and
faithful friend."

This inscription was doubtless written by his pastor and
son-in-law, the Rev. Izrahiah Wetmore, who had known him
intimately nineteen years, and it would be difficult to improve
the epitaph.

428 History of Stratford.

Hon. Robert Walker was the son of Robert and Ruth
(VVilcoxson) Walker, who was the son of Joseph and Abigail
(Prudden) Walker, the son of Robert Walker, one of the
founders of the Old South Church of Boston, Mass., and
could therefore boast of as staunch puritan blood as any.
His father was deacon in the Congregational Church, a man
of influence and high standing in the town as well as in the
Church, who died in 1743.

Robert, the son, after graduation at Yale College in 1730,
became a lawyer, and as such was quite celebrated, having
but few equals in. his day, not excepting his rival the Hon.
William Samuel Johnson, between whom and himself there
was great friendship. He was first sent to the legislature in
1745, and served in that body fourteen sessions, and where he
is styled first Mr., then Captain, and then Colonel, and in
1766, he was chosen an Assistant or member of the upper
house in which position he served two years.

He was appointed Judge of the Superior Court first in
1762, and held that position five years. He was also Justice
of the peace in his own township several years.

Hobert Walker ^ Jr., son of the above, was also a
prominent citizen, a lawyer, judge and influential man. He
was graduated at Yale College in 1765, and was appointed by
the General Court, October, 1766, " Surveyor of lands for the
county of Fairfield, in the room of Mr. Judah Kellogg, re-
signed.'*'' This was a fine beginning for a young man not
twenty-one years of age. What position he took in the Rev-
olution is not known, but soon after he became prominent as
a lawyer, became Judge of Probate, serving a number of
years ; Justice of the peace, and a well known and well tried
public citizen. He died in 1810, and his epitaph, found on
page 233 of this work, and probably written by his pastor
the Rev. Timothy Cutler, gives high praise to his life and
character. He was town clerk from 1789 to 1804.

Gen. Joaepli Walker, brother of Robert, Jr., above,
was born in 1756; graduated at Yale College in 1774, served

' Coll. Rec, xii, 502.

Biographical Skctc/ws. 429

through the Revolution, beginning in 1777 as captain and
closed a Major General, He was a number of times a repre-
sentative to the legislature; was a prominent businessman
after the war. He built the first mill at Benjamin's Bridge,
known for many years lately as the Yellow Mill at Pembroke
Pond or Lake. His dwelling house, which he may have built,
stands a few doors north of the railroad, on Main street in
Stratford village. It is the old style of a long-roofed house
with the end to the road and two immense elm trees in front
of the lot in the street. There was a stone in the front, near
the top of the chimney with the date, no doubt, on it, but this
stone long since disappeared, ver}' much to the regret of the
historian if no one else.

Mohert Faivchildj Esqv,, was born in 1703 and died in
1793, " In the 90th year of his age," says his tombstone. He
was one of the remarkable men of Stratford.

He probably practiced law, but held the office of Probate
Judge man}^ years. His house, which was built b}' Josiah
Beers, in 1770, is still standing by a well of most delicious
water, on Main street, first one south of the railroad, with the
little office still attached where he spent much of his time for
many years. He was town clerk from 1759 until 1789, and
during the Revolution he was a firm patriot, and some of the
resolutions recorded and printed in this book were probably
the work of his pen, and if so, they show the energy, decision
and earnestness with which he labored and used his pen during
that great conflict. His fame as town clerk and probate
judge is still spoken of as remarkable, and very honorable
to the town, as well as to himself.

Rev. Wathaii Birdsey died in Stratford, Jan. 28, 181 8,
aged 103 yrs. 5 months and 9 days. He was born Aug. 19,
1714; took his degree in Yale College in 1736, was settled as
a minister in West Haven, 1742; preached there 16 years,
then removed to his patrimonial estate at Oronoque in this
town where he resided until his death. He married but once
and lived with his wife 69 yrs. She died at the age of 88 yrs.
He had 12 children, 76 grandchildren, 103 great-grand-
children, and 7 of the 5th generation at his decease. Of his

430 History of Stratford.

12 children 6 were sons and 6 daughters, a daughter being
born next after a son in every instance. His funeral was
attended by a large concourse of people, among whom were
about ICO of his posterity. A sermon was delivered on the
occasion by the Rev. Stephen W. Stebbins from the text,
"All the days of Methuselah were," etc.

Mr. Birdsey. after he left West Haven, continued to
preach occasionally for many years. When he was over lOo
years he officiated in the pulpit in Stratford. (See Sprague's
Annals.) He retained his mental faculties in a remarkable
degree until his death, although nearly blind and quite deaf
at the last. (From Sprague's Annals.)

Mr. Birdsey married Dolly Hawley of Ridgefield, who
was brought up by her aunt Chenev in Boston, of whom she
learned to make wax figures or statuary. Some of her pro-
ductions in this line are still preserved among her descendants,
by the family of Aaron Benjamin.

Mr. Birdsey attended personally the ordination in Strat-
ford of Rev. Hez. Gold in 1722 ; the Rev. Izrahiah Wetmore in
1753; the Rev. S. W. Stebbins in 1784; the Rev. Matthew R.
Button in 1814, at the last, he being then 100 years old, offered
the ordaining prayer, and afterwards dined with the council.

It is stated as tradition, that Mr. Birdsey, when a young
and single man, dreamed that he should pass the night some-
where in his travels where the supper table would be set by
a young lady wearing on her neck a blue bandanna handker-
chief with white spots, and that he should marry her. This
all came to pass at Mr. Hawley's in the person of Dorothy,
whom he married.

There is preserved an account of the finding of a very
good spring of water by the Rev. Nathan Birdsey in answer
to prayer. While the question of his piety and true Christian
life is not doubted, it is nevertheless true that if he had looked
tor a spring of water with the same earnestness any other
time he would have found it just the same. One effect of
prayer is to move persons to do their own duty and work,
and then the Great Ruler of the Universe does his, or has it
already done, long before the prayer is made.

Biographical Sketches. 431

TJie War of 1S12.

No town acts are recorded in reference to this war. A
few items have been gathered, while hurriedly coUcctinLT the
the material for this work.

During this war against England, the United States
employed vessels owned by individuals as privateers, or
in other words, granted Letters of Marque to capture Eng-
lish vessels wherever found. Capt. Samuel C. Nicoll being
a qualified person was thus engaged and some account of
his services are here given. In such cases the engaging in
this kind of employment is regarded the same as going to the
field of battle in the army. The work of a privateer is very
different from that of pirates. The following brief account
of Capt. Nicoll is taken from Cogshall's History of the Amer-
ican Privateers, chapter vii.; published in 1856.

" The privateers Scourge and Rattlesnake appear to
merit something more than a passing remark, as they were
often in company in a distant sea, on the same cruising
ground, and as they were very fortunate in capturing and
annoying the enemy's trade and commerce, I shall devote a
separate notice to them as their just due.

Though the worthy captains of both these vessels have
passed away from earthly scenes, I hope their acts and deeds
in their country's service will ever be appreciated, while
bravery and patriotism are held in high regard by civilized
nations.

" The Scourge was owned in New York, and commanded
by Capt. Samuel Nicoll, a native of Stratford, Conn. He was
a worthy, intelligent, enterprising man, and a good patri(n.

" The Scourge was a large schooner privateer, mounting
15 guns, with musketry, etc., and suitably officered and
manned for a long cruise. She sailed from New York in
April, 181 3, for the north coast of England and Norway.

" Captain Nicoll was a man of sound judgment, and a
good financier. After he had made one or two successtul
cruises, he found it more to his advantage to remain on shore
in the different parts of Norway, where he sent in most ot his
prizes, and attend to the sale of them than to go to sea, and

432 History of Stratford.

leave the management of his rich prizes in the hands of dis-
honest or incompetent persons.

" On the 19th of July, while Captain Nicoll was off the
North Cape in the Scourge, he fell in with and cruised for
several days in compan}' with Commodore Rodgers, in the
United States frigate President, who was then cruising in
those high northern latitudes.

"After Commodore Rodgers left that region for a more
southerly one, the Scourge proceeded off the coast of Nor-
way, and alternately off the North Cape, to intercept British
ships sailing to and from Archangel.

" The following list comprises a portion, but by no means
all the prizes captured by the Scourge. A great number
were sent into the different ports in the United States and
Norway, particularly into the harbor of Drontheim, and
many others were disposed of in various ways.

" Brigs Nottingham, 266 tons and 4 guns, and Britania,
4 guns, both from Onega, Russia, for Hull, cargoes lumber;
after an action of fifteen minutes, no lives lost ; taken by the
Scourge.

" Prosperous, 260 tons and 4 guns, in ballast, from New-
castle ; given up to dispose of the prisoners by the Scourge.

" Latona, of Shields, by the Scourge.

" Experiment, of Aberdeen, by the Scourge.

"Ship Brutus, taken by the Scourge and Rattlesnake;
given up to dispose of the prisoners.

" Westmoreland, from London, partly laden with sugars;
taken by the Scourge.

" The Brothers, of 126 tons, from Lancaster ; by the
Scourge,

" Brig. Burton, Ludlin, of 266 tons, and 4 guns, from
Onega for Hull ; by the Scourge.

" Brig Hope, 260 tons, 4 guns, cargo of linseed ; also the
Economy, of 181 tons, and 2 guns, with tar; both from
Archangel for England ; by the Scourge.

" After these captures the Scourge was refitted, at Dron-
theim, and rigged into a brig, for a new cruise under the
command of Capt. J. R. Perr}-, Captain Nicoll remained in
Drontheim to look after the prizes.

Biographical Sketches. 433

The Chandelier.

It is said that during these cruising voyages as a pri-
vateer, Captain Nicoll obtained the very elegant chandelier
which he gave to the Episcopal Church of Stratford, and
which was used many years for lighting the Church. It was
a richly ornamented article, for which he was offered in New
York eighteen hundred dollars, and if it was still preserved
whole would be worth a large sum of money, but it was dis-
tributed some years since in pieces, to any who desired.

Scatter, Men, Scatter.'"

In this conflict of 1812, with Great Britain, vessels of war
frequently came up the Sound and lay off Stratford to obtain
supplies from the Housatonic river; and their presence was
alarming to the people of Stratford, they fearing the soldiers
would land, plunder or burn the town or carry off men as
prisoners of war. To prevent such calamities a guard of sol-
diers was stationed at the mouth of the river to keep watch
and give alarm, should there be any occasion.

One afternoon such a war vessel came and lay off the
harbor late in the afternoon, and just at night Sergeant James
Coe, with several soldiers under his command, was sent as a
guard to watch the movements of the enemy. It being near
dark when they took their post of observation, and hence
they thought they saw several men, in groups, slightly mov-
ing, as if in consultation, ready to move forward. Charles
Burritt, who had worked about there in the day time, and
had guarded there in the night, knew that what seemed
to be groups of soldiers were only bunches of thistles which
grew there and were moved by the wind, said softly to Ser-
geant Coe, "Shall I shoot? I have two in range; 1 can kill
them both." " No, no !" said ^he sergeant, " don't fire, but
Scatter boys! Scatter ! or we shall all be killed." And scatter
they did, in double quick, still carrying on the joke. Soon

Manuscript of Nathan B. McEwen.

434 History of Stratford.

the story was taken up by the younger men, and the ser-
geant being a man easily teased, did not soon hear the last of
"Scatter, men! scatter!" which was the proper command to
be given had there been real danger.

The Old Ptiif¥ip of the Cedar of Lebanon would furnish
quite a history if it could reveal secrets.

Capt. Samuel C. Nicoll built the dyke at the Lordship farm
about 1815. In 1818, the dwelling and barns were built.
That year he brought from New York a red or Spanish cedar
pump, some say a cedar of Lebanon, taken from a Spanish
vessel that was being repaired at that port; the pump being
old and hence unfit for further service. He set it in his yard
for watering his cattle at the Lordship farm.

After standing there about forty-three years, it was taken
out, somewhat rotten at the lower end, but was afterwards
used by the Spiritualists to pump water from the hole at the
gold diggings about a mile east from the Lordship farm, near
the shore.

The old pump was made of two pieces bound together
with iron hoops. After a time it was brought to the village
and became the property of Nathan B. McEwen for some
work he did in pay.

So the old pump, after being transported in active ser-
vice over the great seas, many years, did about sixty years
service on land, and then, although much of the wood was
filled with nails yet Mr. McEwen secured quite a number
of beautiful canes, and thus, in parts, the old cedar pump
travels on.

Mosquitoes sure. It is said mosketoes are not as plen-
tiful as they were fifty years ago.

In 1822, the lighthouse keeper lost a cow by the mos-
quitoes. He shut the cow in the barn, but the mosquitoes
attacked her so numerously that she broke out of the barn in
order to get away from the torment. Then they came in
clouds and stung her so that she swelled as large as a hogs-
head and died from the effect."

" Manuscript of Nathan B. McEwen.

Biographical Sketches. 435

John Selby lived near the lower wharf in Stratford.
He was a young man who had worked his way to the com-
mand of a brig running to the West Indies. In an evil hour
he was tempted to smuggle a few hogsheads of rum, the do-
ing of which proved his ruin.

He commanded a brig built all of mahogany in the West
Indies, with which he came into and went up the Housatonic
river to Friar's Head, where in the night he unloaded some
casks of rum and put them into a building to save the tariff
or duties. A young man being near, courting late in the
night, discovered the transaction and complained to the au-
thorities that he might get the reward, which was half the
vessel and half the cargo. The vessel was seized by the gov-
ernment, condemned and sold. Capt. Selby was fined and
imprisoned. After lying in prison a long time, his wife
smuggled a saw in to him with which he broke jail and went
pirating, and was gone several years.

Finally, becoming tired of the business, and desiring to
see his family, which consisted of a wife and three children,
he, through agents, made a compromise with the government
and was pardoned by paying nine thousand dollars. He
came home a dissipated, wretched man."

Oysters are now a commodity of large growth and
commerce.

When the white settlers first came they found piles of
oyster shells in various places on Great Neck and where now
the village of Stratford is located. These beds of oyster
shells when now dug up as they frequently are, reveal the
fact that many of the oysters that the Indians gathered were
remarkably large, and probably very rich as food.

There has been found no town acts for the first one
hundred years restricting the taking of oysters by the Indians
or inhabitants of the town.

In December, 1764, for the first is found a vote of the
town restricting the time for taking oysters, thus: "That if
any parties should take oysters between April 20th and the
loth day of September they should pay a fine of ten shillings,"
and a committee was appointed to prosecute if necessary.

^'^ Manuscript of Nathan B. McEwen.

436 History of Stratford.

From 1790, to 1810, the matter received considerable
attention, restricting not only the time for taking them but
also the instruments with which the work should be done.

At present the territory for oyster beds is mapped out,
bought and sold, and deeded with as much precision as the
cultivated land on the shore, and every year the matter
assumes new interest and additional proportions.

Ferries in Stratford.

The Ferry was started by Moses Wheeler, as heretofore
stated, but while the ferry property belonged to Mr. Wheeler
the privilege of conducting a ferry across the river did not.
This privilege was given to Mr. Wheeler for the first twenty-
one years, and afterwards leased to him and other parties.

In January, 1690, a committee of the town was appointed,
who leased " the Stratford Ferry to Samuel Wheeler, son of
Moses Wheeler for 21 years from the i8th of November next."

To this record Moses Wheeler appended the following,
he being then ninety-two years of age.

" To y^ Committee of y^ town of Stratford, Gent"". These
may inform you that for the natural love and affection y*' I
have to my dearly beloved son Samuel Wheeler, I doe by
these presents transmit all my right, title and interest of y®
ferry in the bounds aforesaid with all benefits and profitable
improvements accrewing thereunto by virtue of any gift,
grant or lease whatsoever in as full and ample manner as ever
it was made to me or intended, as witness my hand this 6'^
day of January, 1690.

Moses Wheeler.

Signed in presence of )
Thomas Hicks. )

Previous to 1719, Richard Blackleach had leased and
conducted the ferry some years, and a town committee was
appointed to lease it twenty-one years longer.

In 1727 the Assembly granted the liberty to the town of
Milford to establish a ferry and keep a boat on the east
side of the river. Whether the ferry on the east side was

Ferries and Bridges. ^^7

established or not, or how lon<r it continued, if at all, is noX.
known, but in May, 1758, the subject came up again before
the Assembly and they gave notice for the towns and ferry-
man— Josiah Curtiss of the Stratford side — to appear in the
next October session and give their reasons, if any, why a
ferry should not be established on the east side, and at that
session they ordered that " there be a boat kept on the east
side of Stratford Ferry River for transporting passengers,
etc.;" and the privilege was granted to the town of Milford,
upon the condition of their erecting a dwelling house at or
near said ferry place, commodious for the reception and en-
tertainment of travellers, and procuring and keeping a good
boat, etc."

In May, 1761, Peter Hepburn, of Milford, having taken
the ferry on the east side, petitioned the Assembly and re-
ceived liberty " to keep a house of public entertainment at
said ferry the year ensuing."

In this way the ferry was continued until a little after the
year 1800.

In 1802, the Legislature, upon the petition of Jonathan
Sturges and others, incorporated a company to build a bridge
across the Housatonic river at or near the ferry place between
Stratford and Milford, by the name of The Milford and Strat-
ford Bridge Company, and in 1803, the same body changed
the name to that of Washington Bridge.

In 1807, the company were released from building the
bridge on "stone abutments and stone piers," and were
allowed to build it " on piers and abutments constructed
with wood and stone, in a substantial and workmanlike man-
ner ; and the privilege of a lottery was granted to raise
money in aid of building the bridge, provided the bridge
should be built within five years.

In 1813 the bridge was standing, and rates of toll were
established.

This Washington Bridge is still a standing institution ot
very complete and substantial construction, but how many
times it has been rebuilt is not known.

The Zoar Bridge Comjyany was granted incorpora-
tion in May, 1807, and rates of toll established. This was

438 History of Stratford.

then at the northern extremity of Huntington, but before
1789 the place was at the north end of Stratford.

In 1762, the privilege was granted to Edmund Leaven-
worth to establish a ferry " at the narrows a little above
Derby Neck."

In May, 1716, Sergt. Joseph Hawkins was granted liberty
by the Assembly to establish a ferry across the Housatonic
river at what is now Birmingham Point, and also to run
across the mouth of the Naugatuck river a little below, when-
ever he had occasion.

In 1737, the Assembly granted this privilege to Moses
Hawkins, son of Sergt. Joseph, he having the exclusive right
at that place.

In 1745, Capt. Moses Hawkins being deceased, the Assem-
bly granted this ferry privilege to Joseph Hawkins.

In 1763, John Stephens had a ferr}^ at Derby Narrows,
across to Stratford side. When this ferry was removed from
Hawkins Point down to the Narrows, the Leavenworth ferry
was established above Derby Neck.

The ferry at Derby Narrows continued many years after
the year 1800, and was often called the Huntington ferry, as
it landed passengers on the west side of the river, in the town
of Huntington.

More about Mills.

In 1730, Robert Wheeler was granted libert}^ to " set up
a grist mill on the east sprain of the Farmill river below Pine
Swamp, a little below the beaver dam."

"December 31, 1739. Voted liberty to Mr. Nathan Cur-
tiss and Judson Burton to make a dam and erect a sawmill
over Unkaway mill river, so-called, being west of Tashua on
their own land."

The Tide Mill at the Eagle's Nest was built first on the
east side of Nesumpaws creek, and was the first flouring mill
in Stratford, and was probably conducted by the Hurd family
at first ; then some years by the Blakeman families, the two
sons of Rev. Adam, James and Samuel. After that it is prob-

Mills and Sailing Vessels. 430

able that this mill was left and went to decay, and no mill
was there for nearly one hundred years. To this first mill
there seems to have been a road or horse path from the
southern end of Stratford village, southwest across the
swamp, perhaps near or in the path still called Chauncey's
Lane ; the Rev. Mr. Chauncey having owned land on that
lane it was called after his name.

In 1765, a new mill was built on the old site, still on the
east side of the stream, and a house was also built the same
year on Eagles' Nest, the highest land in that vicinity, by
Samuel Judson; the cellar of which was plainly to be seen a
few years since.

Afterwards the mill \vas kept for a time bv Nicholas
Darrow. About the year 1800 a great freshet carried away
the foundations, the mill and several rods of earth where it
stood, making the stream much wider. There was a dike
about three feet high around the mill inclosing considerable
land, to keep out the high tide, which was also destroved, and
drowned all the miller's hogs and poultr}-.

After a short time a large mill was built at the same
place, on the west side of the stream, but using the same dam.
This mill was four and a half stories high, about 60 tect in
length and 40 in width. It was built of very heavy timber,
the posts being twelve inches square, for the purpose of stor-
ing corn, which was ground, kiln-dried and shipped to the
West Indies, packed in large hogsheads. Within the mem-
ory of the late Nathan B. McEwen, William S. Johnson and
William A. Tomlinson were engaged in this enterprise. The
mill was also used to grind wheat and rye, as a grist mill.

The mill was owned and kept by William Samuel John-
son and afterwards by his son Edward, as a grist mill, until
August 30, 1851, when it was consumed by fire. •

The water was so deep that large sloops came to the side
of the mill and took on their loads for the West Indies.

Vessels were owned, built and sailed from Stratford.
Many have been the men who were owners and part owners,
sailors and masters of vessels which sailed from Stratford,
and the list of the sons of Stratford whose dust was buried in
the deep, deep sea is a long one. The items or particulars.

440 History of Stratford.

and names of these which have been gathered for record here
are scarcely worth mentioning, yet by time and search much
fuller record could be secured.

Among the first ship owners and ship builders at Strat-
ford was Joseph Hawley.

" October 27, 1678. This writing witnesseth that I, John
Rogers, of New London, in the Colony of Connecticut, doe
acknowledge that I have received of Joseph Hawley of Strat-
ford the full and just sum of fifty-eight pounds one shilling
two pence ; which said money was improved in the building
of a ship, which said ship now rideth in Fairfield harbor,
called the John and Esther."

In the remainder of the record, this sum is said to be
one-eighth of the value of the ship.

In 1680 John Prentice bought of Joseph Hawley one-
eighth part of this ship.

In 1679, Richard Blackleach bought one-eighth part of a
vessel called the " Katch Tryall of Milford," for sixty pounds
money.

James Bennitt, a shipwright, built a vessel at Stratford in
1696.

Stratford was among the established ports of entry in
1702, but had been the same many years before, probably
from the first, since there was a collector of customs here
soon after the settlement.'^

^^ "Ma}', 1702. Be it enacted by the Deputy Governor, Council, and Repre-
sentatives, in General Court assembled, and by the authority of the same : That
the maritime towns and places hereafter named and no others shall be held,
deemed and adjudged to be Lawful Ports within this Colony, that is to say, New
London, Saybrook, Gilford, Newhaven, Milford, Stratford, Fairfield and Stamford,
at every of which aforesaid ports an officer shall be held and kept for the entring
and clearing of all ships and other vessels trading to or from this Colony, to be
called and known by the name of the Navall Office, with such fees as have been
accustomed ; and at one of the ports aforesaid and not elsewhere, all ships or
other vessells is trading to or from this Colony shall lade and unlade all goods,
commodities, wares and merchandise whatsoever, which they shall import or
export."

Col. Rec, vi. 374.

Stratford Churches. 441

The Universalist Church of Stratford.

A church of this denomination was built in Stratford, as
appears from the following- extract from the paper of that
day called the " Universalist Union."

" The Church recently completed at Stratford by the
First Society of Universalists in that place was solemnly ded-
icated to the service of ' God the Saviour of all men, espe-
cially those that believe,' on the 24'^'' of November, 1837.
The day was unusually fine and the house well filled with
attentive worshippers. This small, but neat and commodious
edifice has been tastefully planned and finished in a style
which does great credit to the architect. It is thirty by forty
feet, has a gallery at one end, the pews are arranged in the
modern style and it will seat comfortably from 200 to 250
persons. It does not stand on so high ground as the other
churches of the place, nor reach quite so high towards
heaven, but we are fully justified in the belief that its propri-
etors and attendants rank as high in point of moral worth,
sincerity, zeal, and pious devotion as any church in Stratford.

" The order of exercises on the occasion were : Voluntary
by the choir; Reading- the Scriptures by Br. F. Hitchcock;
Hymn; Introductory prayer by Br. F. Hitchcock; Hymn;
Sermon by Br. S. J. Hillyer, text I. Chron. xvi. 29; Dedica-
tory prayer by Br. B. B. Hallock ; Hymn; Benediction.

"The morning, afternoon and evening services were
attended by large congregations." Mr. F. Hitchcock was the
pastor of this Church.

In the Manual of the Congregational Church of this
place it is stated that " when Mr. Button was called to this
Church, its spiritual condition was very low. Various
causes, long operating, had greatly adulterated the doctrinal
belief of many members. Some of the most prominent had
become believers in Universalism."

This belief resulted in a new society and a church edifice
in 1837, as recorded above.

442 History of Stratford.

The Methodist Episcopal C/iurch in Stratford.^*

Tradition says that the Rev. Jesse Lee preached in Strat-
ford on the 4th of July, 1789, it being the first sermon
preached here by a Methodist minister. The first Methodist
class was organized here on the 19th of May, 1790, by Mr.
Lee, consisting of John Smith, John Peck, and Margaret and
Amy Plumb. Bishop Asbury preached in the town house on
June 7, 1 791, and met the class, which, organized only a little
over one year before, now numbered twenty members. From
this time to about 18 10, when the first house of worship was
erected, the preaching services were held in private houses;
much of the time in the residences of Capt. John Peck and
Elnathan Wheeler. No record is known to be preserved of
the precise date when the first church was built, nor of the
names of the first officers and members. The Conference
records show that in 1810, Nathan Emery and John Russell
were preachers on the Stratford Circuit, and Joseph Crawford
was the presiding elder ; in 181 1, Aaron Hunt, Oliver Sykes
and J. Reynolds were preachers, and William Anson was
presiding elder ; in 1812, Seth Crowell, Gilbert Lyon and S.
Beach were the preachers, and Elijah Hawley was presiding
elder; in 1813, E. Washburn, James Coleman were preachers,
and Nathan Bangs, presiding elder.

The preachers from 1814 to 1879 were as follows: 1814,
E. Wolsey and H. Ames ; in 181 5, E. Hibbard and B. English ;

in 1816, R. Harris and Dickerson ; in 1817, R. Harris

and E. Canfield ; in 1818, S. Bushnell and A. Pierce; in 1819,
B. Northrop and D. Miller; in 1820, Bela Smith and D.
Miller; in 1821, Bela Smith and James Coleman; in 1822,
Laban Clark and Eli Bennett; in 1823, Laban Clark and John
Nixon; in 1824, E. Denniston and William Pease; in 1825, E.
Denniston and Julius Field; in 1826, S. D. Ferguson and V
Buck; in 1827, E. Bennett and V. Buck; in 1828-9, John
Lovejoy and J. H. Romer; in 1830-31, H. Bartlett and Charles
Sherman; in 1832, S. Martindale and L. C. Cheney; in 1833,
J. P. Youngs and J. Tackaberry ; in 1834, R. Gilbert ; in 1835^

'■* Compiled for the Fairfield County History by Mr. H. A. Sutton.

Churches in West Stratford. 443

D. Miller; in 1836, D. Miller; in 1837, C. \V. Turner , in
1838, Clark Fuller a part of the year, and Asahel Brons the
other part; in 1839-40, Abram S. Francis, during whose pas-
torate the present church was built: in 1S41-42, Paul R.
Brown, under whose labors a number were added to the
Church; in 1843-44, Daniel Smith, a successful laborer; in

1845-46, Harvey Husted ; 1847, Frost; in 1848-9, C.

Kelsey ; in 1850-51, Morris Hill; 1852-53, Jacob Shaw; in
1854, G. C. Creevy ; in 1855-56, L. D. Nickerson ; in 1857-58,
William T. Hill; in 1859-60, S. A. Seaman; in 1861-62, J.
W. Simpson; in 1863-65, Bennett T. Abbott; in 1S66-67, T.
D, Littlewood ; in 1868-70, Joseph Smith; in 1871-73, Joseph
Vinton; in 1874-76, A. V. R. Abbott ; in 1877-79, Benjamin
Pillsbury ; in 1880, S. A. Seaman.

Summer field M. E. Church lu Stratford.^^

About the ist of January, 1871, the following persons met
in a room on Barnum street. West Stratford, and established
a mission: Rev. W. W. Bowditch, pastor of Washington Park
M. E. Church, Rev. George A. Parkington, George \V.
Bacon, Solomon Bachelor, W. W. Stannard, and a number oi
others.

Rev. George A. Parkington, then a local preacher, but
since a member of the New York East Conference, was se-
lected to preach in the mission. He preached his first sermon
here January 15, 1871, and on January 29, 1871, a Sunday-
school was organized, with Wesley W. Botsford, Superin-
tendent; Frank N. Cox, Secretary and Treasurer, and David
Clark, Librarian. The school began with thirty members,
and in due time a membership class and regular prayer meet-
ing were established, with Solomon Batchelor as class leader.

Soon after a committee was chosen to proceed in prepar-
ing for and building a church, consisting of George W. Bacon,
Solomon Batchelor, Calvin Hall, I. Hurd and L. B. Vaill ;
and George A. Parkington, having joined the Conference in

'5 Fairfield County History, 765.

/|/j/j History of Stratford.

April, 1872, was sent to the Summerfield Church, this being
the name selected for the new enterprise.

The subscription list commenced with the name of Susan
Hubbell, who gave five hundred dollars, and George W.
Bacon gave the same amount, which were followed by Solo-
mon Batchelor, Isaac Hurd, P. T. Barnum and Francis Ford,
who each gave one hundred dollars. A site was selected, the
building commenced, and on March 16, 1873, the edifice was
dedicated by Bishop Edmund S. Janes.

The Trustees elected June 3, 1872, were Solomon Batch-
elor, L. B. Vaill, James Lobdell, Calvin Hall, Smith Lewis,
Sylvester Bradley, Gilead L. Andrews, Emmanuel Sciviter
and Frank Fairchild.

The pastors have been: 1872-73, George A. Parkington ;
1874-76, A. P. Chapman ; 1876-78, Larmon W. Abbott; 1878,
Edward L. Bray.

Trinity Memorial Church in West Stratford.^^

On the 20th of September, 1871, the first of a series of
Wednesday evening services was held in West Stratford, at
the house of Silas Scofield, Esq., in Rivere Place, by the Rev.
Sylvester Clarke, Rector of Trinity Church, Bridgeport.
On the following Sunday, September 24th, a Sunday-school
was begun in the school house of the same Newfield district.
The corner-stone of a chapel was laid by the Rt. Rev. Bishop
Williams, of Connecticut, on Wednesday, Nov. 29, 1871. The
building, after being inclosed, waited through the winter
before it was plastered.

The first service in it was the celebration of the holy
communion on Sunday morning. May 19, 1872.

The chapel is in memory of the Rev. Gurdon Saltonstall
Coit, D.D., rector for nearly thirty years of St. John's
Church, Bridgeport, who died in Southport, Conn., Nov. 10,
1869.

This parish is a mission of Trinity Church, Bridgeport.

'^ From Fairfield County History, page 766.

CJmrches in West Stratford. 445

Neiu field M. E. C/uirch in West Stratford:'

On the second Sunday of May, 1871, D. W. Currier and
Theodore Courtright called on the neighbors of Newfield
School District, and gave notice that they would open a
Sunday-school on the following Sunday afternoon in the barn
of Nirum Hawley. At the appointed time two children met,
and the next Sunday there were fifteen present. Mr. Court-
right was elected superintendent. The school increased in
numbers and interest until the barn became too small, when
they removed to a more commodious place in a store building
owned by John French.

In the mean time a society was established, and a Sunday-
school organized on Sunday, September 24, 1871, called a
Union Sunday-school. This school met in the district school
house until the completion of a chapel, which was erected
and ready for use on the 3d day of March, 1872.

These two schools united in one, August 18, 1872, and
the whole was turned over to the Rev. A. C. Eggleston, pas-
tor of the Washington Park M. E. Church.

This organization was called the Newfield Methodist
Episcopal Society, which assumed all debts and purchased
the property, securing the chapel and the site.

The following spring, 1873, they applied to the Confer-
ence, and the Rev. R. S. Eldridge was sent to them as their
pastor, who labored successfully one year. The next year
the Rev. E. A. Blake was appointed as their pastor, who
served one year. Since that time the church has had no reg-
ular pastor, but has been supplied from other churches.

Schools in Stratford.

Teaching children to read and write was attended to in
the families by the first settlers. Very soon the Colony made
some provisions for educating children.

The town of Stratford gave early attention to providing
schooling for the children in it.

1' From Fairfield County History, page 766.

44^ History of Stratford.

In October, 1678, the town voted twenty pounds of
money " for maintainance of a school master, the rest of the
money to be levied upon the children privileged by the
school." In December of the same year they voted a school
master " to teach small children to read and write."

A special provision was made by the town as follows:

"October 31, 1687. Also it was voted at the same meet-
ing that what land the town hath at or near the ferry, upland
and meadow now in the possession of Moses Wheeler, sen"^.,
that the produce and benefit thereof shall henceforth forever
be paid and improved for and towards the maintaining of a
publique school for and in the town of Stratford."

This was land the use of which was granted to Moses
Wheeler twenty-one years, gratuitously in view of his main-
taining a ferry across the Housatonic river, and his twenty-
one years having expired they thenceforward devoted the
income to the support of " a publique school." That is, it
was so much towards a free school, which is the earliest pro-
vision of the kind seen on record by the author of this work.

So far as seen there was but one school in the town until
December 13, 1715, when it was voted that "our neighbors
north of Tanner's Brook, may set up a school house at the
north end of the town, they doing it at their own expense."

The next year there were two schools in the village, and
in January, 1716-17, they voted that "the farmers at Long
hill, Oronock, Putnee, Mohegin hills, Trapfalls, Fairchilds,
and Nichol's Lakes and Pambrook, shall have the use of their
part of the 40 shillings pr. thousand allowed by law for seven
years ensuing, provided they educate their children accord-
ing to law," and Sergt. John Hurd and Sergt. Andrew Pat-
terson were chosen a committee for Pembroke,

This shows that there were forty shillings drawn from
the Colony upon each one thousand pounds on the town list
for schools.

In 1722, Capt. Josiah Curtiss, Samuel Uffoot and Abel
Birdsey were the committee for the South School, and
Thomas Welles, James Judson and Ephraim Clark for the
North School. Hence, Thomas Welles was living within
this district, and possibly on what is now the Elias Welles

Schools ill Stratford. aaj

place, where the great elm tree stands; and that tree was in
all probability set there about twenty years later.

In 1740, the schools being under the care of the Ecclesi-
astical Society, were named the South School, North School,
Pembrook School and Putnee School. In 1741, the names
were a little changed and they were called the South End
School, the North End School, Oronoke and Putncc and
Pembrook School.

After this period schools increased, new districts were
organized until the whole town was under a thorough system
of common school education. Those young men who desired
to go to college were prepared in their education by the
parish ministers, until the erection of the Academy.

The Stratford Academy.

"Town Meeting December 17, 1804. Whereas, Samuel
W. Johnson, Ezekiel Lovejoy and other inhabitants of this
town have subscribed one thousand dollars for the buildine- of
a school house or academy for the education of youth, and
have applied to this town for liberty to erect the same on the
public square called the Meetinghouse Hill.

" Voted, that the applicants have liberty to erect a house
for the purpose aforesaid on the Meetinghouse Hill, where
the old meetinghouse formerly stood, with the privilege of
enclosing the same with a fence suitable for ornament and
convenience not exceeding three rods from each side of said
house.

Test, Aaron Benjamin, Town Clerk."

In May, 1806, the proprietors were made a corporate
body, by the following declaration : " Resolved by this Assem-
blv, That Samuel VVm. Johnson, Jabez H. Tomlinson, Stephen
W. Stebbins, Ashbel Baldwin, Robert Fairchild, Roswell
Judson and Solomon Curtis, the present trustees of said
Academy, and others who now or hereafter may be proprie-
tors of said Academy, be, and they are hereby created and
made a body corporate, by the name of " The Proprietors of
the Stratford Academy,"

448 History of Stratford.

In 1836, this Academy was still standing, and the hill had
become known as Academy Hill, which name is still fre-
quently used.

Stratford Union School.

The year 1883 marks a new era in educational enterprise,
spirit and accomplishments, for in that year a union of four
districts was formed ; and a new, two-story brick school house
was built in 1884-85, at a cost of $20,000, and the school was
opened in it with a full complement of teachers, September
14, 1885.

The following was the first School Committee after the
consolidation ; George H. Spall, Howard J. Curtis and Chas.
B. Curtis; and Edwin F. Hall, Clerk, and Albert Wilcoxson,
Treasurer.

The following are the names of the Building Committee:
Robert H. Russell, Rufus W. Bunnell, Charles B. Curtis,
Charles D. Curtiss, and David W. Judson.

The school opened with the following list of teachers:
Mr. Wilfred M. Peck, Principal; MissAddie T. Oilman, Miss
Mary E. Cable, Miss H. Lina Lobdell, Miss Eleanor A. Peck,
and Miss Minnie Judson.

Samuel Fulsotn came from Windham, Conn., to Strat-
ford, probably in the spring of 1743, he having then a wife
Ann, and two children. His descendants have the tradition
that he came specially to do the iron work on the Episcopal
Church then to be built, he being a blacksmith. It is also
said that he brought other blacksmiths with him to work,
and who did work in his shop.

He became a communicant in the Episcopal Church here
in 1743, and purchased his first land in Stratford in 1745, it
being the corner where now Mrs. Hudson's dwelling stands.
This lot of one acre had been owned some years by John
Moss, who had died, leaving it with a house and barn on it,
to his two children Joseph and Mary Moss. After Mary's
part was taken off, Joseph sold his right to John Benjamin
and Samuel Fulsom, who afterwards divided it, Mr. Fulsom
retaining the corner. On this homestead lived the Fulsom
family, the father continuing many years the work of a black-
smith.

History and not Fiction. 4^0

Glorianna Fidsom, the last but one of this family of
nine children, was born December 24, 1753, and grew to be a
very beautiful young lady at the age of sixteen years, the
charming companion of many like her in Stratford at that
day, only she is said to have been more beautiful than any
other. She possessed light brown hair, bright, sparkling
blue eyes, a fine personal figure with a lively, entertaining
manner, and all the modest culture of those frugal days.

In the autumn of the year 1770, when the beauty of the
country was all aglow with preparations for the coming win-
ter, there came into Stratford a stranger, of rather remarkable
appearance, who stopped at Benjamin's tavern, then located
where the dwelling of Mr. Frederick A. Benjamin now stands.
He was John Sterling, from Edinburgh, Scotland, the son of
a Baronet, and he had been sent out by his father on a visiting
tour to America, going first to Canada and thence to New
York. By what fatality he came to Stratford is not known,
nor can it be guessed unless it was to find the very cradle of
liberty, which it has always been understood he did find, both
in politics and marriage. His manner was pleasant and enter-
taining, but he seemed to be a person without any object of
worldly or religious business, and therefore was viewed as a
suspicious character.

He saw the beautiful Glorianna in church, he saw her in
singing-school; he went wherever he could see her, became
acquainted with her, and sought her in marriage. This prop-
osition all opposed except the father and " sweet sixteen,"
The mother imposed every opposition, so did Anna, the eld-
est sister, but Johnny won the race, and came out Mr. Sterling
with Mrs. Glorianna Sterling as mate, March 10, 1771.

He then tarried in Stratford, and after a time wrote home
for money. The father sent some, and wrote him to return
home, but he wrote that he was married and could not come,
so say the descendants of the Fulsom family ; others say, he
did not write home, which is improbable, but that his father
heard of his son's marriage and the beauty of his wife, by
some mariners, who were there from Stratford.

When funds ran low again, Mr. Sterling, like a true
Yankee, engaged in teaching school, "in the old Pendleton
house," where he continued several months, if not more than
a year.

450 History of Stratford.

In December, 1771, the daughter Mary Glorianna was
baptized, and a pupil was taken in charge, to board in the
family.

In the autumn of 1772, the Baronet in Edinburgh, became
impatient at the stay of his son in America and wrote a per-
emptory requirement for his son to come home and bring his
wife with him, but this latter seemed impossible then, and he
departed alone, assuring her he would send for her as soon as
possible.

When he had departed, the whole town was musical with
whisperings, suspicions and reports that the great Mr. Ster-
ling had deserted his wife and that she would see and hear no
more of him.

On March 14, 1773, another daughter, named Maria Jane
was baptized in Stratford.

Soon a letter came from Mr. Sterling that a ship, fitted
for her special comfort, would be in New York at a certain
time, to convey her to Scotland in the best style possible ;
that he had sent her a quantity of goods, of elegant material,
which she must have made in New York, and that he had
sent servants to attend to the necessary work and preparations
for her journey. Her relatives in Stratford have pieces of
the silk for the dress which she was to wear at her reception
when she should arrive at her home in Scotland, which
though now changed in color was originally white embossed
silk, with colored flowers in small boquets scattered sparsely
over it.

After making her wardrobe as complete as possible, Mrs.
Sterling sailed for Europe with her two children and two ser-
vants, a nurse and maid, who had been sent out to attend her.
Mr. Sterling sent an invitation to his sister-in-law Anna Ful-
som to accompany his wife, and goods for her outfit, but her
mother would not give her consent, although it was much
to Anna's regret, saying, it was enough to bury one, for she
should never see Glorianna again, and she could not bury two.
Mrs. Sterling wrote back that when she arrived in Scotland
there were so many carriages on the wharf that she was at a
great loss to know what it meant, but found they were all
there to meet her.

History and not Fiction. 451

After her arrival she had governesses in the house to
teach her the acconnplishments befitting the future Lady of
Sterling Castle. She never returned to America, although
she alwa3'S intended to do so, but she kept up a continued
correspondence with her family, often sending them valuable
presents, especially to her mother and her sister Anna.
Quite a number of these articles are still preserved in Strat-
ford ; also a razor case left by Mr. Sterling, and the remains
of what was once a very beautiful doll, which was sent with
a complete doll's outfit to her little niece, the six-year old
daughter of her sister Anna, who had become the second wife
of Abraham Tomlinson, the father of Miss Huldah and Miss
Polly Tomlinson. Their mother, the first wife, was a daugh-
ter of parson Gold.

During the Revolution Mrs. Sterling had very little
communication with her friends in America, but as soon as
peace was declared correspondence was resumed and she sent
presents of various kinds. There is still preserved quite a
good sized box that came from her filled with presents.

She was very anxious that members of her family should
visit her, and was much delighted when her brother, Nathan
Fulsom wrote that he would go and see her. She directed
him where to go when he arrived in Liverpool and have an
outfit made at her expense. He went, and after remaining
some months he returned, bringing glowing accounts of the
grandeur with which his sister was surrounded.

Her husband, upon the decease of his father, in 1791, suc-
ceeded to the office of a Baronet, which he held to his death,
and the Baronness, although so widely separated from her
family in America, kept up a most cordial intercourse with
them as long as she lived, sending several of her children to
visit them. Her youngest brother, John Fulsom, visited at
her home after his brother Nathan had been there.

In Playfair's Baronetage of Scotland it is stated that Sir
John and Glorianna Sterling had nineteen children in the first
eighteen years of their marriage. It is said by the descend-
ants of her relatives here that she was the mother of twenty-
two children. The Baronetage of Scotland shows that one
of her sons succeeded his father in that office and that her
descendants held the office in 1879.

452 History of Stratford.

It may be seen by the above dates which are taken from
Stratford town records and those of the Episcopal Church,
that the story which connects Sir John Sterling with the
American Revolution cannot be correct, since he was married
and he and his wife Glorianna and their children were at
home in Scotland before the war in America began. Then,
also, the above dates correspond and confirm all the leading
facts of the story as given by Misses Elizabeth and Maria
Peck, still living in Stratford, whose mother was the daughter
of Anna Fulsom, the eldest sister of Glorianna. These ladies
well remember their grandmother, and heard her as well as
their own mother narrate the story, often, in their early years,
and their mother many times in later years ; and they are au-
thority for the above plain statement of facts. It is very
pleasant to the author of this work, that by the assistance of
several persons of Stratford, the above true, straightforward
and agreeable history has been obtained, since a variety of
versions have been heretofore given to it.

St. John s Lodge, No. 8, of Free and Accepted Masons.

The following history of St. John's Lodge has been col-
lected and arranged by Mr. Nathan B. Wells, from a historical
address by the Rev. C. H. VV. Stocking in 1866, and the
Manuel of the lodge and other records :

" The original charter of St. John's Lodge, Stratford,
was granted by the R. W. George Harrison, Provincial Grand
Master of the Colony of New York, dated April 22, 1766.
On the 7th of May following, a preliminary meeting to the
formal opening of the lodge was held, and Monday, the 12th
day of May, designated as the day for organizing.

" On the appointed evening there were present Joseph
Clark, W. M.; James Dunn, S. VV.; John Harpin, J. W ., pro
tern., and ' visitant ' Brother Lemuel Brooks. The lodge hav-
ing been 'opened in due form and cloathed with all their
honors, after having dedicated the same to the Holy St. John,
they proceeded to raise the following Brethren to the Sublime
Degree of Master Mason, to wit: Brother Henry Van Dyck,

The Masonic Lodge. At-t

Brother Ephraim Peet, Brother Abijah Beach, Brother Wil-
liam Mcintosh.'

"On the 15th of the same month the four new brethren
were appointed to the subordinate offices. Henry Van Dyck,
S. W.; Ephraim Peet, J. W.; Abijah Beach, Trcas.; James
Dunn, Sec.

" The element ot discipline early entered into the work-
ings of the lodge. Refusal to obey the Master's gavel was
punished by a fine of two shillings, to be paid immediately,
or suffer expulsion. Obscenity paid a fine of one shilling;
talking, one shilling; profanity, two shillings. Initiation fees
were £1, to the box, and three shillings to the Tyler.

" Twelve successive times Samuel Benjamin represented
the lodge at the annual communication of the Grand Lodge,
walking the distance with glad though weary feet, that so his
candlestick should not be removed. Matthias Nicoll, Benja-
min Fairchild and Rev. Ashbel Baldwin appear as frequently
representing their lodge at the grand communications in
honest discharge of their Masonic obligations.

" This lodge worked under its old colonial charter as St.
John's, No. I, until October 9, 1792. It then came in under
another charter from the newly formed Grand Lodge of the
State, as St. John's, No. 8. The NicoUs, the ^Benjamins, the
Fairchilds, the Johnsons, and others who might be mentioned,
appear among their fellows as zealous craftsmen who knew
their work and wrought it well.

" The following are the names of the Past Masters of this
lodge, with their terms of office: 1766-68, Joseph Clarke;
1768-69, Henry Van Dyke ; 1769-70, Joseph Clarke ; 1770-73,
Stiles Lewis; 1773-79, Joseph Clarke; 1779-80, Stiles Lewis;
1780-84, John Thatcher; 1784-86, Peter Nicoll; 1786-88,
Matthias Nicoll; 1788-90, John Thatcher; 1790-95, J. L.
Wooster; 1795-96, John Thompson; 1796-97, Matthias
Nicoll ; 1797-98, Ashbel Baldwin ; 1798-1804, Matthias Nicoll ;
1804-7, John Thompson ; 1807-8, Nathaniel Kennedy; 1808-
II, Ashbel Baldwin; 1811-12, George Smith; 1812-15, Mat-
thias Nicoll; 1815-21, William T. Shelton ; 1821-27, Matthias
Nicoll; 1827-33, Samuel Benjamin ; 1833-36, Benjamin Fair-
child; 1836-40, John Goulding; 1860-62, A. B. Judd; 1862-
30

454 History of Stratford.

63, Nathan B. Wells; 1863-66, George Jewell; 1867-68, Ezra
Whiting; 1868-70, William A. Lewis; 1870-72, Walter J.
Bristol; 1872-73, Melville J. Curtis; 1873-75, Henry G. B.
Cuzner ; 1875-77, Lasper K. Whitney; 1877-79, Samuel A.
Patterson; 1880-81, Nathan F. Wilcoxson ; 1882-3, John W.
Beach; 1884, Henry F. Mechan.

The officers for the year 1885, are: Nelson E. Dorman,
W. M.; George W. Cradduck, S. W.; Daniel C. Wood, J. W.
Samuel A. Patterson, Secretary ; Ezra Whiting, Treasurer
John W. Beach, George H. Zink and Henry P. Stagg
Trustees; Charles F. Judson, S. D.; Frederick P. Welles, J
D.; Bernard H. Merrick, S. S.; Charles E. Lovell, J. S.
Lasper K. Whiting, Marshall; Rev. Thomas J. Watt, Chap
lain ; George W. Lampson and George H. Spall, Auditors
and Joseph W. Dufour, Tyler.

The number of members at present- is about one hundred
and thirtv.

" Orouoq7ie Lodge, No. go, I. O. O. /^."

This lodge was instituted by Grand Master A. W, Phelps,
in the old Masonic Hall. The first officers installed were:
J. W. Dufow, N. G. ; G. T. Lewis, V. G. ; Charles D. Curtis,
Treas.; H. A. Sutton, Sec.

" Charter members : Joseph W. Dufow, George T. Lewis,
Francis S. Avery, Lucius E. Hendric, H. A. Sutton, John
Cradduck, Charles D, Curtis, William Shilston, Perr}^
Beardsley, C. Lester Young, Laspore K. Whitman, Lewis S.
Hubbell, Abram T. Peck.

" The following is a list of Noble Grands from the organ-
ization to 1881 : Joseph W. Dufow, George T. Lewis, John
Cradduck, Francis S. Avery, Laspore K. Whitney, John Kug-
ler, Charles E. Curtis, A. S. Allen, D. W. Judson, A. C. Ellis,
William Young, Lewis S. Hubbell, A. C. Ellis, A. McEwen,
George Cradduck, William Blaney."

1* Fairfield County History, 768.

The Public Greens. 455

The Borough of West Stratford.

West Stratford, as a borough was organized Julv 3,
1873. The officers for 1873 and 1874, were: A. VV. Lewis,
Warden ; Alfred Beers, James Bounds, E. B. Peck, John
French, William H. Bunnell, and Harvey Birdsey, Burgesses ;
Charles H. Hinman, Clerk; H. B. Drew, Treasurer; D. C.
Wood, Collector; H. T. Quire, Bailiff; J. R. Lockwood, and
Frank Bacon, Registrars of Voters.

This is a rapidly growing borough, and will without
doubt, soon become a part of the city of Bridgeport.

The Bridgeport Hospital is located within its boundaries.
There are two school houses ; the one in the lower district
has four teachers and about 290 scholars, and in the upper
district 200 scholars.

The Public Greens of Stratford Village.

It has been represented that these greens were always
the property of the town, but the records show quite the
contrary.

In 1745, Hezekiah Gold, Joshua Judson, Joseph Booth,
Ebenezer Beech, David Judson, John VVilcoxson, Abram
Curtis and Daniel Curtis, gave four pieces of land to the
town for public greens ; three of them constituted the green
at Academy Hill in the rear of the Episcopal Church, and
one of them the Uptown Green. The deed is to be found in
the records of the Town Acts, Book No. 5, page 153.

From the Revolution to 1850, there were in Stratford
about fifty men of noted prominence, as indicated in the list
of Representatives," of whom it would be a satisfaction and
pleasure to make biographical sketches, if time and space in
this book would allow, but as the facts are, these must be left
for the genealogies and a future historian.

1^ The list of Representatives will be found in the Appendix to this book.

456 History of Stratford.

Besides the following- sketches of descendants of the
older families, space is allowed for brief notices of two or
three persons who with their families, became residents of
this town more recently, and whose literary productions and
beneficent public labors call for the notice and space here cor-
dially given.

TJie Benjamin Family of Connecticut.

From the manuscripts of Governors Eaton and Winthrop
are obtained the following account of the first settler in this
country of the family of Benjamin.

^^ John Henjatnin, Esqr., Gentleman, was the first of
that name who came to this country. His ancestors were
Welch and were among the first of the landed Gentry of
England. He came in company with Governor Winthrop to
the Massachusetts colony in July, 1630, and settled in Water-
town of the same colony [adjoining the present Cambridge]
and died in that town, June, 1645. His house, accidentally
destroyed by fire, was unsurpassed in elegance and comfort
by any in the vicinity. It was' the mansion of intelligence,
refinement, religion and hospitality : visited by the clergy of
all denominations and by the literati from far and near. He
called his eldest son John and after the father's death the
family removed to Connecticut."

Col. John Benjamin^ the third in descent from John
Benjamin, Gent., of Gov. Winthrop's colonists, was born in
Stratford, Conn., in 1731. He was married to Lucretia Backus^
of Windham, Conn., daughter of Dr. Backus, an eminent
physician of that place. He is described as a man of comely
person and strong mental powers, of philosophic tastes and
studies, of which honorable mention was made by President
Stiles of Yale College. He was an earnest and energetic
patriot of '76. He took part in the battle ot Ridgefield, and
received a ball in the shoulder on that occasion which he car-
ried to the end of his life. He died in Stratford, Conn., Sept.
14, 1796. He left four daughters, one of whom married Josiah
Meigs and was the mother of the late Dr. Chas. Meigs, of

Biographical Sketches. 457

Philadelphia, and of Mrs. John Forsyth, wife of the Secretary
of State, in the administrations of Jackson and Van Buren.
He also left six sons, one of whom.

Col. Aaron Benjamin, was the hero of that genera-
tion of the famil3^ Col. Aaron Benjamin was born in Strat-
ford, Conn., Aug. 17, 1757. He entered the Revolutionary
army in July, 1775, when not quite 18 years of age, and re-
mained with it in active duty till the peace of 1783. He was
in nearly all of the principal battles of that memorable war.
Among his experiences were Montgomery's expedition to
Canada, the battles of White Plains, Princeton, Monmouth,
Germantown, Fort Mifflin. Stony Point, the winter at Valley
Forge, innumerable encounters with the enemy, which have
no record in history, hand to hand fights as perilous as " the
imminent and deadly breach."

It is said that he was more than a hundred times under fire.

At Stony Point he was on the forlorn hope and he was
the second man to enter the fort in that famous midnight vic-
tory. He was a Lieutenant and Adjutant during most of the
Revolutionary war, and his son, Hon. Frederick A. Benjamin,
has in his possession many volumes of Order Books in his
father's handwriting. In these books, among many other
interesting items is the complete plan of the attack on Stony
Point, arranged with great precision and embraced in the
Order for the preceding day.

Many were the incidents of the war related by this gallant
actor on its battle fields; most of them have no place in
History, but are preserved as sacred traditions among his
descendants. After thirty years of peace this veteran of the
War of Independence received a commission of Lieut. Col.
and was again called into the service of his country in the
War of 1812. During most of this conflict he commanded
the military post of New London.

In person he was of medium stature, but commanding
presence. He was a man of large humanity, of great purity
of character, of iron energy, and equally unyielding integrity
and honor.

He died in November, 1828, leaving a widow, four sons,
and four daughters.

458 History of Stratford.

Hon. Frederick A. JBenJamiUf residing in Stratford,
on the old place of his ancestors, is the only survivor of these
eight children. He was for many years a merchant in the
city of New York, and after retiring from business he returned
to his native state and town, making it his home. Mr. Ben-
jamin was a member of the State Senate in 1862, and of the
Electoral College in 1864.

Among the descendants of Col. Aaron Benjamin his mil-
itary mantle has fallen upon his grandson, Col. Samuel N.
Benjamin, now one of the Adjutant Generals of the U. S.
army, whose brilliant record in the War of the Rebellion was
worthy of his grandsire.

Jesse Olnei/f A.M.f"" was born at Union, Tolland County,
Oct. 12, 1798. He exhibited in childhood a remarkable fond-
ness for geography, as well as aptness in classical studies;
was for twelve years a teacher in the Hartford Grammar
School, where he was the first American teacher to introduce
the method, now generally adopted, of separating geography
from astronomy, and beginning the former study by familiar-
izing the pupil with the description and surroundings of his
own town, county and state, advancing thence to national and
foreign geography.

His School Geography and Atlas, first issued in 1828,
almost immediately became a standard throughout the coun-
try, has had a sale of several millions of copies, and has been
the model of which all subsequent school geographies have
more or less been imitations.

In 183 1, appears the National Preceptor, a reading man-
ual far superior to any predecessor in, the United States,
which was followed by a series of readers and outline maps,
an Arithmetic, and a School History of the United States.

Mr. Olney was also author of a small volume of poems,
anonymously published at Hartford. To perfect himself in
his favorite studies he visited Europe several times, residing
at Paris for considerable periods.

His residence was at Southington from 1834 to 1854, and
at Stratford for the remainder of his life. He served ten

^^ Johnson's New Universal Cyclopaedia, vol. iii. 949.

Biographical Sketches. 44Q

terms in the Connecticut legislature, where he was an active
worker in behalf of educational interests, and was elected
State Comptroller of public accounts in 1867. He died at
Stratford, Juh- 30, 1872.

^ev. James Harvey Linsley, son of James and Sarah
(Maltby) Linsley, was born in Hartford, Conn., May 5, 1787.
His ancestors came from the town of Lindley, near London,
England. His was the eighth generation of his family in this
country.

He graduated at Yale College in 181 7. While there, a
temporary illness obliged him to postpone his preparation for
the ministry, that goal of his desires, and aim of his studies.

During this period of waiting he was made principal of
the Academy at New Haven, and of that at New Canaan.
Later he opened a private school of his own, the object ot
which was to prepare young men for College ; although at this
time he was offered the charge of five other academies, in as
many different towns.

He came to Stratford in 182 1 with his highly cultured
and accomplished wife, Mrs. Sophia B. Linsley. This lady
was the daughter of Col. William Lyon, of New Haven.

As an instructor Mr. Linsley was widely known and
eminently successful. He dismissed his school in 1831, thus
closing this portion of his life.

On the 9th of June, 183 1, he was ordained to the ministry
at the Baptist State Convention of Connecticut. He had
already opened a mission at the lower wharf, in Stratford,
wholly at his own expense. Here he held services and
preached gratuitously for about five months. In 1832 he
established a Baptist Church in Milford, and in 1835, the
First Baptist Church in Bridgeport. During this period he
supplied for a while the pulpit in Milford, and for a longer
time, that in Stratfield. He was constantly invited to the
pastorate in other places, and in this last year, 1835, he
received calls from five or six different churches, most ot
them among the first of the denomination in the State. But
he declined them all. He preached his farewell to his latest
charge, his people in Stratfield, on the first Sunday in 1836.

Again the loss of health caused his physicians to forbid

460 History of Stratford.

him further public speaking-. Brief as this part of his life
was he had reached the position of one of the most prominent
and influential clergymen of his denomination.

Mr. Linsley was among the earliest and most fearless
pioneers in the temperance movement. In 1830 he addressed
crowded houses on this theme, and he was one of the first
clergymen in the State who sent on his name as a subscriber
to the total abstinence pledge. He was the leader in organiz-
ing the first temperance society in Stratford, of which he was
made president. For his persistent and undaunted efforts in
the cause of temperance, then so unpopular everywhere, he
had the honor of being burnt in effigy. The parties to this
transaction selected an evening when Mr. Linsley was absent
from Stratford. The effigy was carried on a bier to Academy
Hill, where it was consumed, with expensive but appropriate
orgies. When these ended one or two of the ringleaders had
become so helplessly intoxicated that the same bier conveyed
them to their homes.

For the twenty-five years preceding his death Mr. Lins-
ley's contributions to the press, religious, literary and scienti-
fic, were too great in number for mention in this brief sketch.

But the achievements which crowned this successful life;
which gave his name the widest publicity, and which will con-
tinue to illumine it in the records of history, were those won
in the difficult fields of science. Many as were his attainments
in other sciences, in that of the Natural History of his native
State he was without a peer. His catalogues of the Zoology
of Connecticut, including the five classes, Mammalia, Birds,
Reptiles, Fishes and Shells, were first published in the Ameri-
can Journal of Science for 1842, 1843 ^^^^ 1844. Of Mammalia
he discovered several more species than had been found else-
where in New England, one new; of Birds, many more than
Wilson, the distinguished ornithologist had found in the
United States; of Amphibia and Reptiles he detected species
unseen elsewhere in New England ; and of Shells he ascer-
tained more than double the number supposed by other nat-
uralists to be resident in the State, and of these, many were
entirely new.

The value of this great and unprecedented work on the

Biographical Sketches. 461

Zoology of Connecticut can not be estimated. It was rapidly
accepted by the scientific world as acknowledged authority,
and such it still remains.

During the progress of these s'^^udies, which iMr. Linslcy
accomplished in the brief period from 1837 to 1843, '^e was
elected to the membership of various scientific societies of
the highest importance.

Numberless publications, American and European, relio--
ious, literary and scientific, contain notices, sketches and
biographies of this most useful and distinguished life. And
the acts and opinions of one so upright and so learned, find
constant mention in the diversified literature of the present
time.

Mr. Linsley died at his residence in Stratlord, Dec. 26,
1843, leaving a widow and two daughters.

Gideon Totnlinson was for tour years from 1827 Gov-
ernor of Connecticut, and six years from 1831 Senator of the
United States. For special reasons the further record of his
life is placed with the genealogy of the Tomlinson family.

David Plant was for four 3'ears from 1S23 Lieutenant
Governor of Connecticut and a very widely known and influ-
ential lawyer, politician and citizen. (See genealogy of his
family).

JDea. David JP7aut Judson, son of Daniel and Sarah
(Plant) Judson, was born in Stratford, April 16, 1809; gradu-
ated at Yale College in 183 1, a classmate of Dr. Porter, now
President of Yale College. He read law two years, but did
not follow the profession.

Here in his native town the remainder of his life was
passed, in the fine old house built by his father in 1803, much
of it as an invalid, except a small portion passed at the South,
during several successive winters, in the hope of benefiting
his health and prolonging his life.

In 1853, he married Elizabeth S., daughter of Rev. Fred-
erick Gridley, of East Lyme, who, together with their three
children, a daughter and two sons survive him. He died
May 24, 1869. He was a highly esteemed citizen. He gave
considerable attention to his family genealogy.

462 History of Stratford.

Several remarkable relics of the Judson family are still
preserved, especially the old court cupboard and chest
brought to America by William Judson, the first of the name
here. It is of English oak — both dark and light shades — six
feet high, five feet wide, two feet and two inches deep, highly
ornamented with engraved work. The chest is also orna-
mented in the same style, being four feet long, three feet four
inches in height, and twenty-one inches deep, and remarkably
beautiful. There is also a large chair brought to this country
by the same person, which is a beautiful article.

Several articles of much interest are preserved by this
famil}^ which belonged to parson Wetmore more than one
hundred years ago; his inkstand, his punch bowl and others.

Of these large court cupboards, there were three brought
to Stratford by the earliest settlers : one by William Judson,
one by John Welles and one by Robert Coe. The one which
belonged to the Welles family has gone to ashes, but the one
brought by Robert Coe is in the possession of Mrs. George
A. Talbott, of Stratford, which is a particularly quaint article.

What Might have been Written.

Very much that is not recorded in this book is just as
worthy to be here as anything in it, but the fact that the
author could not obtain it in the time allowed for the collec-
tion of material, is the only excuse or reason why such matter
is not here.

It is hoped that the perusal of this book will stimulate
many persons to write for preservation, general public occur-
rences, and their family histories, so that future historians
may have more ready access to them.

There will be found in the genealogical part of this book
many brief sketches of persons and families.

BRIDGEPORT

CHAPTER XVII.

STRATFIELD SOCIETY.

RIDGEPORT, denominated Park City,
f^^ stands on the shore of Long Island Sound,
'" fift3'-five miles from New York City. The
locality, when first seen by English people,
was the site of an Indian village of about
one hundred and fifty wigwams, occupied
by five or six hundred Indians, of the
Pequonnock settlement or tribe. The south-
ern part of the territory for about a mile in
width was a part of a fertile plain of a sandy,
and loamy soil, extending along the shore of
the Sound from the mouth of the Housatonic
River to Southport, a distance of twelve
miles. This plain when discovered by the
English was covered with forests only in
part, there being intervening fields, which in places were cul-
tivated by the Indians in raising corn. At a distance of about
a mile from the shore, the hills begin to rise, and continue
gradually northward for twelve or fifteen miles, furnishing a
fine farming country, and many most picturesque localities.
The City of Bridgeport being so favorably situated, it
could, if it should ever see fit, extend itself to a half million
of inhabitants, with perfect safety to health, ease of access,
charming picturesqueness of local parts, and unsurpassed
salubrity of atmosphere from the great ocean and the hills of
the country.

With these advantages in its favor, Bridgeport has be-
come a city of about forty thousand^ inhabitants, and the
story of its growth, from the first few families which sat
down among the Indians about the year 1665, until it reached

466

History of Stratford.

its present maturity of numbers, is to be briefly told in the
succeeding pages.

Two families at first located west of the Pequonnock
river within the township of Stratford. These were Henry
Summers, Sen., and Samuel Gregory, and their first houses

THE LOG HOUSE OF 1665.

were probably log houses,* located near the present junction
of Park and Washington avenues. •

' The accompan3Mng cut of the log-house was drawn by Esquire Isaac Sher-
man, as representing the kind of house some of his ancestors at Pequonnock
resided in at their first settlement here.

Bridgeport. 467

At that time there were no highways laid out in the
vicinity. A reservation of four rods wide on the east side of
the boundary line between Fairfield and Stratford, for a high-
way, had been made in laying out the lots of land along that
line, but the highway had not been surveyed. A well-worn
Indian path, which served as a cartway, passed to the n(jrth-
east over Golden Hill where now Washington avenue is
located ; which was made a legal highway in 1686, and
passed diagonally through the Indians' Reservation. The
one hundred and more wigwams were mostly located near
the springs on the southern declivity of Golden Hill.

It was in 1687, when the King's highway, now North
avenue, was laid out, and still later when the Toilsome Hill
road, now Park avenue, was surveyed.

The one relieving social comfort to these earliest settlers,
although there were a few neighbors residing at Old Mill
Green, was the fact that the Fairfield men had crowded out
eastward nearly to Stratford line, for Col. John Burr's home
had been established some years, when the celebrated Indian
council was held under the historic oak tree in May, 1681,
which was about half a mile west from Samuel Gregory's
house.

The Indians were so numerous that the children of these
families were afraid to go out of their dwellings, and if they
were out and saw an Indian coming they ran with great
fright to get into their houses. Persons are now living who
have seen those who heard others tell how dreadfully afraid
they were of the Indians when they were children, and had
many times run to enter their homes to escape the coming
Indians ; and the Indian children, it is said, were equally
afraid of the white people.

Thus began the home of the white man, where now sits
the queen of the realm — the city of Bridgeport, with her
towering spires, fine public buildings, elegant residences and
beautiful parks. Then there were only two families, now
there are ten thousand, nearly. But it was so long ago ! two
hundred and fifteen years. The fii'St hundred years produced
only a farming community, with beautiful fields, comely resi-
dences and a numerous, toiling, happy people, with now and

468

History of Stratford.

then a vessel sailing out of the harbor. The next fifty-nine
years gave the embryo city, and the life of that city for sixty-
one years gives the aggregate of nearly forty thousand living

THE BURR HOUSE AND THE HISTORIC OAK TREE. {See page 4g.)

Bridgeport. 469

souls. Then there were two log- houses and a hundred wig-
wams ; now the blazing sunlight is dazzled by its own re-
flected rays, from ten thousand roofs, spires, minarets, castles
and domes lifted towards the king of day by skilled, artistic
hands. Then the weary ox dragged slowly the jolting cart
along the stumpy highway as if an age were too short for the
journey of a day, now the flying monster engine drives along-
upon the polished steel as if a day were too long for the
journey of an age, and the blazing electric fires dispel the
midnight darkness that of yore was far too long for the sleep
of man. The farmer in his manly frock of tow plowed the
smooth fields and gathered in his abundant harvest from year
to year with increasing pleasure and gain ; while his womanly
wife spun the tow to make the frock and provided the frugal,
healthful repast, by the strength of which the harvests were
gathered and the homes made comfortable, cheerful and
attractive to kindred and friends far and near. But the
charming old country homes have long since departed to give
place to their burnished city successors.

Such was the ordinary life eighty and a hundred years
ago, where now the streets are thronged with rich costumes
of silks and satins, and gay, brilliantly ornamented equipages,
the product of a marvelous growth of industrial and com-
mercial enterprises, such as is not frequent in New England.

Here grew up on these farms a multitude of strong, enter-
prising young men, who, fortunately, are not all yet departed
to the land of rest, by the strength of their paternal, physical
and intellectual inheritances, have made a fame of honor at
home and abroad, for their native place, such as to challenge
the rivalry of all neighboring regions or countries; and with
these young ifien grew up also, beautiful, intelligent and finely
cultivated young ladies, the equal in every respect to their
accomplished brothers and successful men of the community.

But in order to a full understanding of the great changes
which have taken place in this locality, and the success which
has marked the enterprising efforts of the people, it is neces-
sary to review the history of two hundred and twenty years,
or from 1665 to 1885, by an abbreviated account of the various
stages through which the citizens of this locality have passed.
31

470 History of Stratford.

The third and fourth settlers in this place were appar-
ently Capt. John Beardsley, near Samuel Gregory's home,
on now Park avenue, and his brother Samuel Beardsley, east
of the site of the present Bridgeport jaii, or as one of the
deeds says, " west of Ireland's brook and north of the Fair-
field road."

Not long after, Samuel Wells, son of the first John, estab-
lished his home in what is now the southern part of Bridge-
port, east side of Park avenue, and there dwelt until his
decease and his descendants after him for about one hundred
years.

Then soon came other settlers in the northern part of
Bridgeport, a Hawley family, a Booth family and Sherman
family, and others, pushing the settlement several miles back
into the woods. There came also a number of families from
Fairfield, and one, Samuel French, from Derby. Although
the progress was slow the}' continued to grow in numbers
and wealth. At the end of twenty-two years they petitioned
for church privileges, but did not succeed until twenty-five
3'ears had passed.

TJie Stmt field Ecclesiastical Society.

The movement began by the organization of a school,
which is described by Maj. Wm. B. Hincks in his " Historical
Notes," as follows:^

" The oldest document signed by the inhabitants of the
plantation as such, that I have been able to find any account
of, is a petition to the General Court dated May, 1678, sub-
scribed by Isaac Wheeler, John Odell, S^, and Matthew Sher-
wood, in behalf of the people of the place. The distance of
nearly four miles that separates them from Fairfield Centre
is too great, they say, to be easily traversed by the children,
especially the younger ones, and therefore they had set up a
school of their own, and employed an experienced teacher.
Forty-seven children were already in attendance. The ex-

^ Historical Notes, 32.

Bridgeport. ^71

pense of the school they propose to bear themselves, but ask
to be freed from taxation for the benefit of the one in Fair-
field. Rev. Samuel Wakeman, minister at Fairfield, adds a
favorable indorsement to the petition, though most of his
parishioners were opposed to granting it. The General
Court referred the matter to the Fairfield county Court, with
power to act, and recommended that body to make an allow-
ance to the petitioners, equal to or greater than their annual
school-tax."'

This action of the General Assembly applied only to the
inhabitants of Fairfield, residing at Pequonnock, for the in-
habitants of Pequonnock, in Stratford township, had a school
on the east side of the line very early, at least soon after the
organization of the Fairfield Village Society; and it is prob-
able that before that they attended school at Stratford village.

Whether the people of Pequonnock held services before
the year 1690, may be a question, since Mr. Chauncey gave
a receipt, as follows, except a little part of it which is torn
from the page of the record book.

" said inhabitants to me the said the year

sixteen hundred eyghtey and eight to the year sixteen hundred

ninetey and foure exclusively, that I doe fully and freely as

above said inhabitants and their heirs forever from as

above said from me or my heirs, &c.: I doe of Decem-
ber, seventeen hundred .

Subscribed, Charles Chauncey."

This indicates that he had served the people as a minister
from 1688 to 1694, but had given no receipt for the salary
they were obligated to pay him, and hence the receipt was
given in 1700.

The first page of the earliest Society's book contains the
following record :

"The Records of the Acts of the Society of Fairfield
Village, began in the year 1693.

It was then voted pr. the said Society that Mr. Charles
Chauncey for his encouragement in the ministry in this place
shall have sixty pounds in good provisions for the year ensu-

3 Col. Rec, iii. 8.

472 History of Stratford.

ing to be paid him by way of Rate, each man according- to
the list of his estate given in.

'• March 19, 1694. At a meeting of the Society of this
place it was voted that Mr, Charles Chauncey should have
for his encouragement in the ministry sixty pounds in good
provisions pay, for the year ensuing, to be raised by way of
Rate according to custom."

The proprietors of undivided lands in Stratford, having-
given certain lands to other societies in the town, gave to
this, in 1719, several acres of land, and afterward added to
the number. " Granted to our neighbors of Stratfield parish
that belong to Stratford fifteen acres of pasture land ... for
and towards the support of a Presbyterian minister amongst
them forever, for the only benefit of our neighbors belonging
to Stratford."

" i/of, Mr. Jos. Bennitt of Stratfield, having payd full

satisfaction majority of merchants in Stratfield for his

trading in said place — Merchant : the said society do acknowl-
edge the same and authorize it to be entered on the record of
Stratfield, Joseph Bennit, Merchant. Voted as above.

Samuel Hubbell, Clerk."

This shows that a merchant was established in the place
by the vote of the society.

Twelve years later another petition was sent to the Gen-
eral Assembly, signed by forty-six tax-payers for ecclesias-
tical privileges, which furnishes, probably, nearly a complete
list of the householders in the settlement in the year 1690.*

* State Papers, Ecclesiastical, i, 105. Copy furnished to Maj. Wm.

B. HiNCKS, BY the courtesy OF Mr. C. J. HOADLY, StATE LIBRARIAN.

Petition for Ecclesiastical Privileges.

" To the Gen" Court of Connecticut (whom we honor), in their next session
at Hartford.

We, the inhabitants and persons of Poquannocl<, do in all humility address
and apply ourselves unto you in mann"- method and form following:

Manifesting unto this hono"-"^ respected representative body that this vicinity
of Poquonnock afores'* appertaineth part to the town of Fairfield, and part to the
town of Stratford, unto which two townships it hath been fully responsible accord-
ing to obligations, for meeting house and school dues, rates and assessments ;
we, the dwellers there, have to the towns we have been engaged to, ever punct-

Bridgeport.

473

At that time, Fairfield opposed the request of the petitioners,
and it was not granted, but in May, 1694, they renewed their
request, and no opposition being offered, liberty was granted
to organize a society. The acquiescence of the Fairfield and
Stratford churches was perhaps due to the influence of the
Rev. Israel Chauncey, who had interested himself in their
behalf.

Of the forty-six names attached to the petition (M 1790,
thirteen of them, and perhaps others, were inhabitants of
Stratford, residing west of the Pequonnock river.

uall)' paid our acknowledgements, taxes and charges, as we have from time to
time been laid under such bonds and indisputable engagem''. But njw since we
are by tlie blessing and grace of Almight)' God risen and advanced to somewhat
more maturity and ripeness, and grown more populous than before, in capacity to
stand within ourselves, without running for succor six or seven miles on one
hand, and at least four on the other ; we doe make it our joynt ardent request and
passionate petition to this honour'd esteem'd Court, that you would in the great-
ness of your goodness, and out of your sincere zeal to the comfort of this part
every way, so order it in your new convention that wee, every one of us, that are
settled inhabitants of and steady dwellers in Poquoniiock, may be exempted and
relaxed from anj' minister's rate or rates and schooU masiours salerys, either in
Fairfield or Stratford afores'', purposing (God smiling on and favouring our enter-
prises) to suit o''selves in time convenient w"' such meet instrum" for ye pulpit
and scholl, as may most and best serve the interest of our God, and do our souls
and children most good ; such as shall bee most painfull pious and profitable (or
these ends to w'^^ they were ordain'd, and are improv'd. And your humb. peti-
tioners shall ever continue to pray for your long life and prosperity, subsigning
this our address, dated 1^ May, 1690.

John Bardsle, S'., Sam" Hubbell,

Richard Hobbell, S^., Sam" Bardsley, S^,

Matthew Sherwood,
Sam" Wells.
Isaac Wheeler,
James Benitt,
David Reynolds,
Nathn" Knap,
Will Barsley,
Matthew Sharwood, Jr.,
Isack Wheeler, S'.,
Thomas Griffin,
Roburd Bishop,
Sam" Morhous
Jacobe Wakelen,
Samuel Bardsle,

Samuel Hall,
David Sherman,
Richard Hubell,
Samuel Gregory,
Sam" Tredwell,
John Odell, S^,
Izhak Hall,
John Wheller,
Thomas Wheller,
Joseph Seely,
Moses Jackson, Jr.,
Samu" Jackson,
Matthew Sherwood, Jr.,
Moses Jackson, S'.,

Ephraim Wheller,
Daniel Bardsle,
Samuel French,
Samu" Hubbell.
Timothy Wheller.
Thomas Benit,
Ed. Tredwell,
Jacob Joy,
John Odell, Junr.,
John Benitt, Jnr.,
Thos. Morhous, Jr.,
John Sherwood,
Joseph Joy,
Sam" Sumers.

474 History of Stratford.

In May, i69i,the Court granted liberty to the inhabitants
at Pequonnock " to procure and settle an orthodox minister
among them if they find themselves able so to do, and pro-
vided that those of Paquonnock that do belong to Fairfield
township shall pay their just proportion of rate towards the
maintenance of the ministry in Fairfield till they can obtain
freedom of Fairfield or from this Court."

The next October they were released from paying to the
support of the ministry at Fairfield while they supported a
minister among themselves.

In May, 1694, permission was given to organize a church
and the name Pequonnock was changed to Fairfield Village ;
and this name was changed by the Court in May, 1701, to
Stratfield.

The town of Stratford treated the Stratfield people with
a good degree of friendship and favor.

" December 29, 1692. The neighbors at Paquonnock re-
quested of the town liberty that in case the good people at
Paquonnock should see cause to build a meeting house there
at Paquonnock the liberty to set the said house part upon
Stratford bounds, and said town by vote granted the same."

Therefore the probability is that the first meeting-house
was located on the boundary line, half on Stratford, and halt
on Fairfield territory.

In 1696,^ and 1697, and perhaps several years after, the
town remitted to the society one-third part of their town
taxes.

" In 1693, the foundation of a house of worship was laid
on an eminence in the upper part of Division street [Park
avenue] a few rods south of the King's highway [North ave-
nue]. This height affords a pleasant view of the surrounding

* "Jan. 13, i6g6. Lt. John Beardsley with ye rest of our loving neighbors at
Paquonnock, inhabitants of Stratford, requesting yt. ye town would be pleased to
consider them in the present town rate and make them some abatement in consid-
eration yt they apprehend themselves not equally privileged with ye rest of ye
town in some causes of expense, and the town did by vote grant the request and
give order to ye town treasurer to give to them our said neighbors credit one-third
of their town rate respectively."

"Jan. 19, 1697. It was voted that our loving neighbors at ye Village should
be allowed one-third part of their town rate for ye year past."

Bridgeport. 475

country and is still called Meetinj^house Hill. The building,
though small, was not completed until 1695, and in the mean
time it is probable that the people gathered upon the Sabbath
in a private house, having already provided themselves with
a pastor."

The Stratfield Ecclesiastical Society was the hrst one in
the Colony, not being a town, fully organized as independent
of all other societies, and hence it was necessary for the Gen-
eral Assembly to define its privileges and powers. This was
done as follows :

"August I, 1699. Liberties granted to Fairfield Village
by the Assembly :

" I Impr. To make choice annually of two or three per-
sons who shall have power to order meetings of the society,
their ministers' rates, and what concerns may be about their
meeting house.

" 2d. To choose collectors of the rates, and that they
shall have power by virtue of a writ from lawful authority of
non-payment to distrain.

" 3d. To choose a constable whose power shall reach
from west side of Pequonnock River unto the utmost bounds
of the village, westward according to the limitations granted
Commission officers: the village consisting partly of Fairfield
and of Stratford.

"4th. That they shall have liberty to choose annually a
society recorder to be sworn to that work."

In 1717, the privileges and powers of ecclesiastical socie-
ties were further defined ; and in 1723, still further.'

In the case of the second society organized by law in
Stratford village, to which Mr. Zachariah Walker ministered,
it was in part under the officers and control of the first
societv, or the town, for so far as seen it had no officers
elected by the town ; but the Stratfield society was granted
several offices to be filled by its own election, in 1699. Pre-
vious to this, a part of the time at least if not all, its recorder
was that of the town of Fairfield ; and its own special officers,
if it had any, had not civil authority.

6 Historical Notes, by Major W. B. Hincks, 35.
■" See foot note on pages 302 and 303 of this book.

4/6 History of Stratford.

The boundaries of the Fairfield Village on the western
side were not particularly specified as became necessary, and
on petition the General Assembly in May, 1701, established
them definitely, and changed the name from Fairfield Village
to that of Stratfield,* a name formed from the first part ot
the words Stratford and the last part of Fairfield.

In May, 1702, this society received its part of the State
money for schools according to the following act:'

"Ordered b}' this Assembly, that the constable or con-
stables of Fairfield and Stratford, or those to whom orders
shall be sent annually for the payment of the schools there,
shall pay to the schoolmaster of Stratfield, so much as ariseth
upon their part of the list at fort}' shillings upon every thou-
sand pounds, according to the late law for Schools."

The ecclesiastical Society being fully organized, it thereb}'^
became the territory for a military company, and hence in
October, 1703, " David Sherman was appointed Ensign of
the train band in Stratfield.'"

The next spring the complement of officers was made
more complete by the appointment of " Lieut. John Beards-
ley to be Captain of the train band of Stratfield, and Lieut.
James Bennet to be their Lieutenant." Capt. John Beardsley

* " May 1701. This Assembly having heard and considered the petition or
request of the inhabitants of Fairfield Village presented to them by Lieut. James
Bennett, desiring that the Court would state and settle for them a line for the
west boundary to their plantation, &c., do order and enact : That the line to be
the west boundary of the said plantation shall run so that it may take in and in-
clude within their bounds, one Moses Jackson, miller, his housing and lands, and
run on the west side of old Jackson's lotts (viz): pasture, building lot, and long
lot, upwards or northwards to the upward or northern end of the bounds of the
town of Fairfield, and that all such person or persons as have built or shall build
and inhabit on the east side of the abovesaid line, and on the west side of Poquan-
ack River, shall pay to ail public charges that shall arise in the said plantation his
ratable part thereof.

" Provided always : That this act shall in no wise hinder or abridge the inhab-
itants of said plantation, of using and holding the priviledge of feeding sheep to
the westward of the abovesaid line, as it was granted to them formerly by the in-
habitants of the town of Fairfield.

" And further it is enacted by the authority aforesaid : That the said planta-
tion (formerly called Poquannuck and Fairfield village) shall for the future be
called by the name of Stratfield." — Col. Rec, iv. 356.

9 Col. Rec. iv. 3S4. '0 Col. Rec, iv. 445. " Col. Rec, iv. 476.

Bridgeport.

A77

had been lieutenant at Stratford many years, and lames
Bennett the same at Fairfield.

The following is a copy of the first page of the Stratfield
earliest church record book.

"The Church of Christ in Stratfield (formerly called
Poquannuck) was gathered, and Charles Chauncey was or-
dained the Pastor thereof, June 13, 1695,

"The Names of those that at that time were embodied
into Church estate were as foUoweth :

" Charles Chauncey, Pasf

" Richard Hubble, sen"",
Isaac Wheeler, sen',
James Bennit, sen'',
Samu" Beardsley,
Samuel Gregory, sen"',

Maihew Sherman,
Rich' Hubble, jun',
David Sherman,
Jn° Odill, jun'.

"The Names of those that were afterwards received by
vertue of Letters Dissmissory or Recommendatory from
other Churches were as followeth :

Sroni

' Mar}' Sherwood,
Anne Wheeler,
Mary Odill,
Rebecca Gregory,
Ruth Tredwell,

From
Stratford
Church.

{ Abigaill Hubble,

Mary Bennit,

Abigaill Beardsley,

Abigaill Wakely,

Temperance Hubble.

Mercy Sherman,

Their letter was read and
(^ accepted, July 10, 1695.

Fairfield \ Mercy Wheeler,
Church. Abigaill Wells,

Elizabeth Sherwood,
Sarah Odill.

Their letter was read and
I accepted Anno 1695.

"Concord. Joseph Wheeler and his wife. Their letter
was read and accepted.

" From the Church of Christ, Norwalk ; Mary Jackson,
her letter was read December 20, 1697, and accepted.

" Stratford. Hannah Fairchild ; her letter was read and
accepted by the Church September 10, 1699.

" Thomas Hawley, his letter was read and accepted.

"Fairfield Church; Mary Beardsley, Jno's wife; her
letter was read and accepted, July 26, 1702.

" Woodbury ; Abegaill Tredwell's letter was read and
accepted, Nov. 24, 1704.

478 History of Stratford.

" Concord ; Sarah Whitacus, her letter was read and
accepted June 17, 1705.

" Charlestown ; Zachariah Ferris, sen"", his letter was read
and accepted, Sept. 9, 1705."

Besides the above there were added to this Church by
profession, in full communion, during Mr. Chauncey's labors,
to the end of the year 1714, the time of his death, 64 persons,
making 97 in all.

During the same time there were 133 who united under
the Halfway Covenant.

As to the meaning of this latter relation, Mr. Chauncey
says, in heading the list with a prefatory statement:

"The Names of those who have renewed their Covenant,
and personally subjected themselves to the government ot
Christ in his Church, and particularly in this Church, to-
gether with the time of their doing it."

This indicates that the relationship of the Halfway Cove-
nant church members, was not regarded as of less seriousness
or solemn obligation than that of full membership. The re-
quirements in the Covenant itself were nearly the same as
those of full communion ; and it was not a trifling matter as
it has so often been represented. Many persons at the present
day are received to full membership in evangelical Churches
without placing themselves under anything like the solemn
promises that the Halfway Covenant imposed," in those days
of strict religious principle.

^^ The following is a copy of the Halfway Covenant which stands upon the
records of the Church of Ripton at the date of 1773, the use of which was discon-
tinued in 1817 :

" You do now, before God and these witnesses, avouch the Lord Jehovah to
be your covenant God and Father, viewing yourself under solemn bonds and obli-
gations to be the Lord's by your baptismal vows. You do, so far as 3'ou know
your own heart, make choice of Jesus Christ to be your only Saviour and
Redeemer, and. the Holy Ghost to be your Sanctifier, solemnly engaging to serve
the Lord and him only, as he shall by his grace enable you ; that you will deny
all ungodliness and worldly lusts ; that you will be careful to keep a conscience
void of offence, so as to do honor to God and the religion you profess ; that you
will endeavor by strength from God to walk in all his commandments and ordi-
nances blameless, desiring to put yourself under the watch and care of this
Church, to be trained up in the school of Christ for his heavenly kingdom ; prom-
ising also that you will give up your children to God in baptism, and to bring

Bridgeport. 479

The part which this Church had in the establishment of
the Saybrook Platform is seen in the resolution and action
recorded :

"July 27, 1708. Voted on the Sabbath that Lcut. Bennet
or Ensigne Sherman or both, be the mcsscnj^ers of this
Church at the meeting of the elders at Fairfield on the 28"' of
the same month by the appointment of the General Assembly
at Hartford in May last, the end of which meeting of elders
and messengers to Consider the matter of Church discipline."

When the result of the Saybrook convention had been
confirmed by the General Assembly, Mr. Chauncey made the
following entry in the Church book :

"February 16, 1708-9. I published the Confession of
Faith, the Articles of union between the united Presbyte-
rians and Congregational men in England, also read the regu-
lations for Church discipline agreed upon by said Colony,
and confirmed by authority ; None among the brethren ob-
jecting.'"'

The Sev, Charles Chauncey'^ was the first pastor of
the Stratfield Congregational Church. He was x son of the
Rev. Israel Chauncey, of Stratford, and grandson of President
Chaunce}^ of Harvard College, and was born at Stratford,
September 3, 1668. He was graduated at Harvard in 16S6,
and married at Pequonnock, June 29, 1692, Sarah, daughter
of Major John Burr, and great-granddaughter of Mr. Jehu
Burr, one of the original settlers of Fairfield.

Mr. Chauncey was made freem.an in Fairfield, March 18,
i6||-, which indicates his residence there either as a school

them up in the fear of the Lord ; and to attend upon all the ordinances of Christ
as administered in this place ; also that it is your full purpose to obey God in the
ordinance of the Holy Supper as God shall give you light, and show you his will
herein. And you covenant, and you promise, relying for help, strength and abil-
ity on the blood of the everlasting covenant, to perform all and every duty to the
praise and glory of God." — See Ecclesiastical Coittnlnitions, 411.

'^ This account of the action of this Church, as to the Saybrook platform, and
the record of the meeting of the first Consociation of Fairfield County, primed on
pages 310 to 313 of this book, in foot note, are taken from the Stratfield Church
Record book.

'^ See sermon by the Rev. Charles Ray Palmer, pub. 1S76.

480 History of Stratford.

teacher — which is probable — or serving as a minister under
his father in lectures on week day evenings. It is evident
that he served as a preacher, soon after, from the fact that
in 1692, the town of Fairfield gave him land to descend to
his heirs "if he shall die in the work of his ministry at
Poquonnock."

The privileges of a society were granted in 1691, and the
Church was organized and Mr. Chauncey ordained, as seen
above, June 13, 1695.

On the corner of Major Burr's farm, in what has since
been known as Cooke's Lane, a house was built, and in it, in
1693, Mr. Chauncey and his wife took up their abode, and he
commenced his regular ministerial labors.

In 1697, his wife Sarah died, and he married 2d, Sarah,
daughter of Henry Wolcott, of Windsor, March 16, 1698.
She died Jan. 5, 1702, and he married, 3d, Elizabeth Sherw^ood,
March 14, 1710.

Mr. Chauncey was a member of the Council at Saybrook,
and one of the founders of the Fairfield Consociation. Under
his ministry both the church and the settlement steadily in-
creased in numbers. His salary was at first £60 per annum,
payable in produce at market rates, but afterwards it was in-
creased to ^80. He had, independently of his support, prop-
erty in Stratford and in England, and left an estate valued at

Mr. Chauncey died December 31, 1714, leaving a widow
and several children.

The first Deacon of Mr. Chauncey's Church was David
Sherman, a large farmer, and one of the first settlers in
Pequonnock. He was born in Stratford in 1665 ; was a man
of good abilities, gifted in prayer, and much esteemed. In
the absence of the minister he took the lead of religious ser-
vices.

The Second Meeting-house in Stmt field.

Mr. Samuel Cooke commenced preaching for this people
soon after July 11, 1715, and was ordained pastor February
14, 1715-16.

Bridgeport. 48 1

In December, 171 5, the Society proceeded to the election
of officers in which they called their most prominent officers
" Selectmen," it beino^ probable that they intended by that
term simply the society's committee. They also voted, " that
the drum shall bee beaten round the meeting- house on Sab-
bath days;" and Richard Hubbell, Thomas Hawley, James
Seeley, were chosen a committee to consult some carpenters
about the enlargement of the meeting-house.

In July, 1716, further action was taken: "Voted, that
they will inlarge and repair the meeting-house ;" and a large
committee was appointed to have the work done as soon as
convenient, at the charge of the society."

In the progress of events, the work being delayed, another
plan seems to have come under discussion, and probably was
brought up at the next annual meeting, which meeting was
adjourned several days, and when they came together in
December, 1716, the}^ voted, " that the place for the setting
of the new meeting-house, if they shall afterward agree to
build one, shall be near the corner of Joseph Trowbridge's
orchard, late deceased, on the norwest side of the road be-
tween that and the widow Sharman's, deceased. Also voted
at the same time, that they will build a new meeting-house,
of these following dimensions: twenty-four feet between
joints ; forty-eight feet long; thirty-eight feet wide and a long
roof. Major John Burr, Capt. David Sharman, Left. Richard
Hubbell, Jr., Samuel Sherwood, Mr. Benjamin Fairwether,
were chosen a committee to build the above said house, on
the charge of the abovesaid inhabitants; and what the major
part of the committee agree to, shall be binding, not exceed-
ing four hundred and fifty pounds, besides the charge of rais-
ing said house."

At another meeting, on December 31, 1716, they "granted
by a major vote a Rate of one hundred pounds money to be
raised on them according to their lists the last year, to be laid
out towards the building of the new meeting-house."

In March, I7f|- the following request was received by the
meeting of the society : " Your petitioner requests your
favour so far as to grant me the liberty of making a pew for
my wife and children at my own charge in the new meeting-

482

History of Stratford.

house, on the women's side up by the pulpit. Pray be so
kind as to gratify ine in this instance, both with respect to
the thing itself and the situation of it. I remain 3-our s. in
all things I may. Sam'-^ Cooke.

Passed in the affirmative at the abovesaid meeting."
"May 23*^, 1717, then voted and agreed that the com-
mittee shall hire men to raise the meeting-house and give
them 3* per day, they finding themselves."

STRATFIELD SECOND MEETING-HOUSE ERECTED IN I717.

On December 30, 1717, they proceeded to make the rules
for seating the meeting-house : " Voted that the meeting-
house shall be seated by dignity, age, and estate by the pres-
ent list ; and also that David Sharman, Richard Hubbell, John
Odell, Samuel Sherwood and John Burr be a committee to
seat the meeting-house, and have power to seat from time to
time as they see occasion.

" At a meeting of the society, March 7, 17-J-J, then voted
that Major John Burr sit with his family in the pew that he

Bridgeport. 483

has built in the meetinghouse durini^ the pleasure of the
society."

In 1718, an appropriation of sixteen pound and six shill-
ings was made by the society for building a gallery in the
meeting-house, and Capt. David Sherman, Thomas Hawley,
and Samuel Gregory, were appointed the committee to
build it.

This meeting-house was considerably altered as shown
by the vote, December 17, 1765 : " Liberty was granted to
the following persons, each, to build a pew at the east end of
the meetinghouse where the short seats are, the}' building at
their own cost and pa)nng the several sums affixed to each of
their names, to the treasurer of this society in three months
from this time ; for them and to be for their benefit during
their pleasure to sit in :

Nehemiah Smith Odell, 13^ 2^ | Seth Gregory, 13* 2^

Benjamin Hubbell, Jr., 12*6''

Jabez Hubbell, 12* 2^

Gideon Hubbell, 12* i**

Thomas Hawley, 12* o^

Elnathan Sherman, 11^ 4*^

"December 20, 1769. Voted that the society are willing
to build a steeple at the west end of the Presbyterian meeting
house."

The committee to do the work consisted of "John Burr,
Esq., Lieut. Benjamin Fayerweather, Lieut. Abel Seel3'e, Mr.
Stephen Starling, and Mr. Benjamin Wheeler," and they
were to do the work by subscription.

The subscription, however, was not sufficient to complete
the work, for on September 19, 1770, the society voted that
they were " willing to tax themselves to finish the steeple ;"
but changing their minds somewhat, they voted to make fur-
ther efforts with the subscription, and it is probable that it
was finished without a tax.

The steeple was not finished, when on the 2Sth of July,
I77i,it was struck with lightning while the people were wor-
shiping in the house, but was not greatly injured, although
two men, John Burr, Esq., and Mr. David Sherman, being in

Hezekiah Hubbell,

12^

i'^

Edward Rowland,

13^

3'^

Wolcott Hawley,

13^

Aaron Hawley,

12'

Isaac Hunt,

13^

484 History of Stratford.

the house at worship, were killed. No other persons were
seriously injured by the shock.

On August 5th, 1 77 1, they voted to repair and finish the
steeple ; and the next April they voted " that there may be
an iron rod put up at the steple by subscription."

Another improvement was secured by the following so-
ciety act: "Mar. 8, 1774. Voted that they will have a bell;
also that the society will get a bell by subscription, and
Joseph Strong, Gideon Hubbell, and Edward Boroughs shall
be the committee to get the bell."

"September 12, 1774. Voted that y^ Society are willing
to have the bell ringed at y^ usual time on Sabbath days, and
other days at 1 2 of y ^ clock in y'^ day and at 9 o'clock at night,
and also on lecture day ; and whereas Mr. Wolcott Hawley
offers to ring y* Bell at y*^ rate of £^ 10' by y^ year for y^ first
three months, it was agreed to by y* meeting."

There seems to have been some failure in the bell, for in
November the society voted that they were " willing to run
the bell over again and pay for it by subscription." This was
probably done, since they continued afterwards to appoint a
person to ring the bell from year to year.

Hev, Samuel Coolze,^" son of Thomas Cooke, Jr., and
Sarah (Mason) Cook, of Guilford, Conn., was born in Guil-
ford, November 22, 1687. His father died suddenly in 1701,
before the son entered college, and the General Court granted,
in May, 1703, a petition from the boy and his guardian (John
Parmelee) for the sale of a house and lot to gain funds to
carry out " the great desire of Thomas Cooke, deceased, to
bring up this his son in learning." He graduated at Yale
College in 1705.

He perhaps studied divinity immediately after gradua-
tion. In January, 1707, he became the rector of the Hopkins
Grammar School in New Haven, and held that position at a
salary of £,60 a year, also occasionally preaching, until the
close of the year 1715. He was also a deputy to the General
Assembly from New Haven, for the six sessions from October,

'5 This sketch is taken from " Biographical Sketches of the Graduates of
Yale College," by F. B. Dexter, M.A.

Bridgeport. 485

1712, to May, 171 5, serving as Clerk of the House for the last
five. He married, November 30, 1708, Anne, only daui^rhtcr
of John Trowbridge, of New Haven, and granddaughrcr of
Governor Leete, of Guilford.

In 1714, the Church in Stratfield lost by death its first
pastor, the Rev. Charles Chauncey ; and on June 16, 1715, a
call was extended to Mr. Cooke to become his successor.
The church in New Haven was also pastorless, owing to the
death of the Rev. James Pierpont; and on July i, 171 5, this
society met " to nominate a man to carry on the work of the
ministry on probation." Mr. Cooke was put in nomination,
and the place was probably more attractive to him than was
Stratfield ; but the vote stood 86 for Mr. Joseph Noves to 45
for Mr. Cooke.

Accordingly, the call to Stratfield was accepted July 11,
and Mr. Cooke appears to have begun his ministry there at
once, though fulfilling his engagement with the New Haven
Grammar School, until the end of the year 1715. His ordi-
nation is said to have taken place February 14, 1715-16. The
salary was ;^ioo a year, with firewood.'"

He retained this pastorate until his death, December 2,
1747, at the age of 60. His latter years were troubled by an
alleged backwardness on the part of his people to make good
the salary promised him ; and after his death his executors
brought suit for the sum of ;^3000 arrears due his estate."

In 1717, at the very beginning of his ministry, a new
meeting-house was erected, which was used until the present
century. In the events which followed the great revival of
1740, Mr. Cooke was a zealous advocate of what were known

'^ specimen of Mr. Cooke's Receipts.

"Stratfield, July y** 14, 1716, Received of henry Wakely and Sam" Wells,
Jn', Collectors of the Minister's Rate or accepted as Received the sum of one hun-
dred pounds six shillings and fore pence as money in full of the Rate that by
agreement was to have been paid me on or Before the first day of March last
passed and acordingl}' acquit the Society of Stratfield of one full years Rate and
one myself endebted to the s'' Society y** sum of six shillings and fore pence.

Witness my hand, Sam"-"- Cooke.

" A considerable part of this sum, probably, grew out of claims, in conse-
quence of the depreciation of the currency.
32

486 History of Stratford.

as " New Light " measures ; and particularly, in May, 1742, he
took an active part in the organization of a new church in
New Haven. He had been since September, 1732, one of the
Trustees of Yale College, but the predominant " Old Light "
convictions of the other trustees led finally to the following
vote, found in the original records of the Corporation for
September, 1745 : " Whereas, this board have at this and for-
mer meetings signified to Mr. Cook their dissatisfaction with
sundry things in his conduct, and he could not conveniently
tarry to make any distinct answer thereunto at this time by
reason of sickness in his family. Voted, that the President,
with the rest of the standing Committee of this Board be
desired to signifie to Mr. Cooke the reasons of their dissatis-
faction in writing and desire his answer thereto."

It is but fair to read between the lines, and bearing in
mind that this was the first meeting convened after the new
charter of 1745 had passed the legislature, which gave power
(not in the former charter) to six of the Trustees to remove a
Trustee from his place, we may conclude that the writing
sent to Mr. Cooke forced upon him the resignation of his
trusteeship, which was announced to the Corporation at their
next meeting, in April, 1746.

The New Haven County Association of Ministers had
previously, September 25, 1744, sent a letter to Mr. Cooke
signifying their uneasiness with, and offense at the proceed-
ings of said Mr. Cooke, etc., in pretendedly gathering a
Church among the Separatists at New Haven in opposition
to the pastor and ist church there. His letter in reply was
voted " not satisfactory," September 24, 1745.

On the other hand the Fairfield Eastern Association of
Ministers, in which Mr. Cooke was a leading member, passed,
April 15, 1746, a series of resolutions, evidently bearing ref-
erence to his citation before the Trustees, and to this effect:
in view of the Assembly's having granted "a new College
Charter with large privileges and a new form of government,
and particularly by investing the newly incorporated body
with powers of taking away as well as giving College honors,
as the said Corporation see just cause; Therefore,

" I. Voted and Agreed, That no person or future mem-

Bridgeport. 487

ber of this Association shall be looked upon by us obliged to
answer before sd. authority for any such fact or facts as were
committed by such member before sd. Corporation's Investi-
ture with such new authority.

" 2. Voted and Agreed that no member of this y\ssocia-
tion is obliged to answer to sd. Corporation for any of their
Doctrines or Conduct as ministers of the gospel "

" He was," says his present successor, " a man whose
personal dignity was long remembered in the parish, and was
held in the highest respect — somewhat in fear. He was par-
ticularly careful in his personal appearance. This comprised
a heavy curled wig, black coat and small clothes, shoes with
silver buckles, and over all a black gown or cloak."

His first wife was born July 22, 1688, and died August 11,
1721 ; and he married. May 3, 1722, Esther, daughter of
Nathaniel Burr, and widow of John Sloss, both of Fairfield ;
she died in less than a year. He married, thirdly, Elizabeth,
daughter of Joseph Piatt, of Norwalk, Conn., born December
2, 1701, and died May 16, 1732, "of an apoplexy;" and
fourthly, Aug. 6, 1733, Abigail, daughter of the Rev. Samuel
Russell, of Branford, and widow of the Rev. Joseph Moss, of
Derby, Conn., who survived him. His children wfere, three
sons and four daughters by his first wife, and three sons by
his third wife. Three of his sons, Samuel, William, and
Joseph Piatt, graduated at Yale College in 1730, 1747, and
1750, respectively. One of his daughters married the Rev.
Robert Silliman.

The inventory of his estate amounted to ^2,787 ; it in-
cluded 61 books and 173 pamphlets.

He published two sermons :

1. A sermon preached at the funeral of Rev. John Daven-
port, of Stamford, published in 1731.

2. A sermon preached before the Eastern Association of
Fairfield County, on a publick lecture in Danbury, July 29,
1741.

This sermon was introduced into a spirited controversy
between Jonathan Dickinson and Samuel Johnson. Johnson
published, in 1744, "A Letter from Aristocles Authades, con-
cerning the Sovereignty and Promises of God," and Dickin-

488 History of Stratford.

son, in replying, in 1746, with "A Vindication of God's Sov-
ereign free Grace," interpreted Johnson's imagined antag-
onist (Authades) as Mr. Cooke, whose views (as printed in his
sermon) he certainly seemed to be controverting; Johnson,
however, in "A Letter to Mr. Jonathan Dickinson," disclaimed
the intention of a precise reference to Cooke's sermon.

Besides these sermons should be mentioned :

3. " Invitations to the Rev. Mr. Whitefield from the East-
ern Consociation of the County of Fairfield. With a Letter
from the Rev. Mr. Samuel Cooke, of Stratfield, to a Minister
in Boston, Concerning the former success of Mr. VVhitefield's
Ministry there."

This pamphlet contains a letter by Mr. Cooke to one of
the Boston ministers, dated May 15, 1745. This letter is an
urgent appeal that Mr. Whitefield ma}^ come and preach in
the churches of Fairfield County; and to show the spirit of
some of these churches he prefixes a vote of the Consociation
at a meeting held in Stratfield, October 7, 1740, of which he
was Moderator and Scribe, inviting Whitefield.

This publication was quite possibly an additional motive
for the action taken in September, 1745, by the College
Trustees.

History of the Porter Proper ty.^^

Much interesting history is connected with the premises
of No. 532 Main street and the house recently demolished to
make room for a block of stores. The territory of nearly
seven acres, on the east side of Main street from a point at or
near Golden Hill street to Congress street, bounded easterly
by the harbor, was purchased by Samuel Porter, sen.," from
Zachariah Hawley, Feb. 5, 1759. A plot of the premises

'• Manuscript of Dea. R. B. Lacey, written for this work.
'^ A portion of the old Samuel Porter deed.

To all persons . . . Greeting. Know ye that I, Zakry Hawley, of Stratford
and County of Fairfield and Colony of Connecticut in New England. For the
Consideration of One Hundred and two pounds York money by me in hand re-
ceived to my full satisfaction of Samuel Porter of Stratford, and County and Col-
ony aforesaid, do give grant bargain sell to his heirs and assigns forever my

Bridgeport.

489

copied from the original, made by Wolcott Hawley, surveyor,
found among the Porter papers, is given with this record.

THE PORTER PROPERTY.

Dwelling house and Land whereon it stands on Golden Hill, called y* old fort,
and is Bounded South on Deacon Joseph Booth's Land Easterly and Northerly
on ye creek and West on highway — the sd house and Land with all the apper-
tenances thereunto belonging for him the said Samuel Porter forever. To have
and to hold . . . forever.

Witness my Hand and Seal the 5"' day of Feb. in the 32' year of the Reign of

•our Sovereign Lord George the second of Great Britain King, Annoque

Domini, 1759.

Zachariaii Hawlky."

Signed and sealed in presence of
Theophilus Nichols.
Joseph Nichols.

490 History of Stratford.

There was a dwelling house on the plot in 1759, but not
the one which has just been taken down. The latter was
probably erected by Samuel Porter, sen., soon after the close
of the Revolutionary war, and, with the " Old Red House"
which stood on the west side of the highway, — Main street —
the site of* the present wooden block of Mr. Nathaniel
Wheeler, was among the very first residences of a good class
erected upon the Newfield, as Bridgeport was then called.
James and Zachariah Hawley were sons of Gideon, and third
in descent from the original Joseph Hawley, of Stratford,
through first, Ephraim and Sarah Wells, and second, Gideon
and Ann Bennett. They were pioneers here. The Hawley
family were large land owners. James seems to have settled
on the west side of the highway. His son. Deacon Elijah,
was a house carpenter, and probably built and occupied the
old red house. Isaac Sherman says of him : " He removed
to the West very early, and died in Ohio in 1825, aged 84
years. He had a son by the name of Jesse, who was born in
the old red house. This Jesse removed to the state ot New
York in early life and died there in 1843, at the age of 70
years. It is said that he was the projector of the Erie canal
by communicating his ideas of such an enterprise to Gov-
ernor DeWitt Clinton.

Major Aaron Hawley, a brother of Deacon Elijah, ap-
pears to have been the owner of the old red house in 1787, at
which period the "upright highway" — Main street — was
widened and the site of the famous well in front, which stood
its width in the street, was excepted and liberty was given to
fence around it. The same well exists to-day covered by the
sidewalk stone. Zachariah Hawley married Bethia Austin
of Suffield, Ct., and probably removed to Massachusetts, for
none of his descendants appear in this part of Connecticut.

Samuel Porter, sen,, died September 15, 1795. The Por-
ter purchase remained intact as field land during his life, ex-
cept at the south end, where he gave a house lot r.s an advance-
ment to his daughter Mary, who married Lewis Sturges.
The old house, now a portion of the Elisha Hubbell property
at the northeast corner of Main and Golden Hill streets, was
the residence of Isaac Sturges, son of Lewis. His son Joseph

Bridgeport. 491

P. Sturges — commonly called Porter Sturges — had his resi-
dence a little way south. The original house is standing but
it has a brick front and has been raised an additional story.
The main building is occupied by Cohen (millinery) and
Bain (a tea and coffee store.) It was a double house with hall-
way and kitchen wings both on the north and south. Porter
Sturges occupied the south house, and Henry Coty and the
late Thomas Hutchins successivel}'' occupied the north part
for many years.

There was a vacant lot between the two Sturges houses
through which Golden Hill street was extended in 1847, from
Main street easterly, leaving a strip of land on the south side
of the street, which was leased by the city and an engine
house, for the original No. 5 hand engine, was erected
thereon. The same building is now occupied as a bakery by
Mr. A. Brennan.

The survey from which the accompanying diagram is
taken was made by Wolcott Hawley, a brother of Major
Aaron and Deacon Elijah Hawley, October 20, 1795, to aid
the distribution of the estate of Samuel Porter, Sen. The
original has the dotted lines showing the portions set out to
the two heirs, Samuel Porter, Jr., who had a double portion
and his sister, Mary Sturges.

Lewis and Isaac Sturges with their families went West
about 1820, and afterwards settled in Wisconsin. Rev. Albert
Sturges, the veteran missionary of the American Board in
Micronesia, is of this family.

They sold their interest in the remnant of this property
on the death of Samuel Porter, Jr., who died without children,
September 9, 1842.

The Rev. Thomas B. Sturges, of Greenfield Hill, Conn.,
is the only son and heir of Joseph P. Sturges. He inherited
the undivided half of the old Porter house, lot No. 532, Main
street, and came into possession of it on the death of the
widow of Samuel Porter, Jr., April 12, 1867.

Recently, there has been a division by which he has ac-
quired sole ownership of the entire Main street front, and is
putting it to use by erecting the one-story block of stores
now being built.

492 History of Stratford.

This plot of land is referred to in the deed, as being lo-
cated on Golden Hill, showing that the name was applied to
the land extending to the Pequonnock river. It was also
called " Y^ Old Fort." Referring to the diagram on the
right hand side, bordering on the creek at the extreme point,
the position of the fort may be seen. These are the only
allusions to a fort here, now known, and its previous existence
must have been traditionary in 1795. It could hardly have
been built b}- the English settlers, or there would have been
some record of it, or in connection with its erection and use.
Therefore it must have been an Indian fortification.

The location was a rocky promontory jutting out into
the creek from a beautiful plateau which extended back to
the highway. Later, for three-quarters of a century it was
universally known as Porter's Rocks. It retained nearly its
pristine beauty until 1838, and was a favorite resort for sports
and bathing, by the young men and boys of the period, a few
of whom survive to this day. . There was the round rock and
the flat rock; both extending out so as to afford at their base
considerable depth of water at high tide ; the latter was at
the extreme point and was a favorite place for fishing, espe-
cially for frost fish in their season. A short distance from the
point on the northern bank was the round rock, from which
the bathers took their leap headforemost into the briny
waters. The bank here was skirted with cedars, which
afforded a good cover for this sport.

Just before the present century, a new spirit of enterprise
was awakened here. Previous to the Revolutionary War
the parish of Stratfield was a quiet farming community.
Nothing had been done, specially, to develope the place.
Long Island Sound had indeed become a highway of com-
merce. The frequent disturbances, at that period in the
political atmosphere of the Old World, were soon felt here,
and the infant settlements, unprotected as they were, and
their trading vessels especially, were a tempting and easy
prey to the privateers, which swarmed on the American
coast.

The harbors and settlements lying close upon the Sound
were most exposed. Pequonnock river, however, was excep-

Bridgeport. 493

tionally safe. There was fully as much depth of water above
the neck, now the site of Berkshire bridge, as on the bar out-
side, and plenty of space also. The wooded blufTs on the
shore, some of them jutting out into bold promontories, shut
out this portion from the open harbor and Sound, afibrding a
safe retreat, almost a hiding place. Under the then existing
state of things it is no wonder commerce was early developed
at this place. Theophilus Nichols and his son Philip had
their store and wharf at the extreme head of naviofation near
what is now known as the Plumb place. Thev built and
sailed vessels from there, as did also Capt. Stephen Burroughs,
Sen. The shore opposite the old red brick house on North
avenue was long known and designated the Ship3'ard. The
commercial and trading interests to this period with Boston
and New York were not large, yet were sufficient to foster a
spirit of enterprise and educate and prepare the more ambi-
tious young men to improve their opportunities.

The establishment of our national independence not only
infused new life, but brought greater security to our coast
and coasting trade. The surrounding countr}- naturally cen-
tering here was rich in agricultural resources. Boston, New
York, the Southern Atlantic States and the West Indies, were
the markets. Water street had been laid out from the
present Fairfield avenue, three rods wide to Welles' Tongue.
Wharves and stores began to be built upon it. Men with
their families, who had lived from one to two miles in the
interior, settled on the shore and entered vigorously into trade
and commerce. Among these may be mentioned the families
of Nichols, Hawley, Hubbell, Sherman, Burroughs, Sterlings
and Summers. The advantages of the location began to be
appreciated and an enterprising element came into the place,
from the surrounding towns and from a greater distance.
Isaac Sherman mentioned by name, in 1857, not less than forty
men who came from abroad and settled here between the
years 1790 and 1806, who became prominent as successful
business men.

The names of these persons with the date when they came,
and their business occupations, are here given ; the stars in-
dicating those whose descendants are known, still remain in
the city.

494 History of Stratford.

1786, Daniel Young, merchant, from Norwich, Conn.

1790, Salmon Hubbell, merchant, from Wilton, Conn.

1790, Capt. Abraham Hubbell, merchant, from Wilton,
Conn.

1792, John S. Cannon, merchant and banker, from Norwalk,
Conn.

1792, Robert and Prosper Wetmore, merchants, from Strat-
ford, Conn.

1792, David and John DeForest, merchants, from New
Haven, Conn.

1792, Thomas Gouge, hatter, from New York State.

1793, Reuben Tweedy,* hatter, from Danbury, Conn.

1793, Nathaniel Wade,* watchmaker and merchant from
Norwich, Conn.

1794, Capt. Thaddeus Hubbell, seaman, from Wilton, Conn.
1794, Isaac Hinman,* merchant, from Trumbull, Conn.
1794, Thaddeus Benedict, attorney, from Reading, Conn.
1794, Lambert Lockvvood, merchant, from Wilton, Conn.
1794, Hull and Lyon, merchants, successors to David and

John DeForest.

1794, Capt. Jonathan Baker,* seaman, from an eastern town.
1794, Richard Hyde,* merchant, from Norwich, Conn.
1794, Samuel Burr, merchant, from Fairfield, Conn.
1796-1803, Ezra Gregory,* inn keeper, from Wilton, Conn.

[The following came between the years 1796 and 1803.]

Ephraim Middlebrook,* joiner, from Trumbull, Conn.

Stephen Hull,* blacksmith, from Wilton, Conn.

Dea. William DeForest,* merchant, from Weston (now

Easton), Conn.
Robert Linus,* pj^cker, from Stratford, Conn.
Capt. John Brooks,* seaman, from Stratford, Conn.
Capt. Joseph Sterling Edwards, seaman, from Trumbull, Conn.
Sylvanus Sterling, merchant, from Trumbull, Conn.
Jesse Sterling,* tnerchant, from Trumbull, Conn.
Capt. Ezekiel Hubbell, seaman, from Greenfield Hill, Conn.
William H. Peabody, cabinet maker, from Norwich, Conn.
Ira Peck,* merchant, from Brookfield, Conn.
Lemuel Hubbell, cabinet maker, from Stratford, Conn.

Bridgeport. 495

Benjamin Hall, attorney, from Weston (now Easton), Conn.
Joseph Backus, attorney, from Glastonbury, Conn.
Maj. Benjamin M. VVoolsev, merchant, from Long Island,
N. Y.

1806, Smith Tweedy, hatter, from Danbury, Conn.

1806, Samuel Penney, merchant.

1806, Hezekiah Ripley, printer.

1806, Lazarus Beach, printer, from Redding, Conn.

1806, Stiles Nichols,* printer, from Danbuiy, Conn.

1806, James E. Beach,* physician, from New Haven, Conn.

1803, Thomas Woodward, merchant.

1805, Josiah Prindle, merchant, from Derby, Conn.

1805, Mordeca Prindle, merchant, from Derby, Conn.

1805, Joseph H. Prindle, merchant, from Derby, Conn.

In 1797-8, the first drawbridge across the harbor was
chartered and built.

In 1800, the borough of Bridgeport — the first in the State
and a pattern for others — was chartered, and as a commercial
and manufacturing community, Bridgeport commenced her
career of enterprise and progress.

Several new streets had been laid out, which were now
recognized and named ; among them Gold street from Main
to the harbor, two rods wide, Mr. Nathaniel Wade, a watch-
maker by trade, from Norwich, Conn., afterward a merchant,
bought land of Mr. Porter, and erected his house, the same
is now standing on the southeast corner of Main and Gold
streets. Philo and DeLuzern DeForest secured the northeast
corner and erected the house now standing there, so long
owned and occupied by Isaac Sherman, Esq., and now by his
descendants. Capt. Joseph Sterling Edwards, from Trum-
bull, bought and built on the south side of Gold street, from
Middle to Water street. His widow left this with other
property, to her brother, Isaac Burroughs, Esq., which has
served to swell the Pettengill estate, from which such munifi-
cent public benefactions are now being realized.

Mr. Jesse Sterling, also from Trumbull, a merchant, pur-
chased the site on the north side of Gold street at the head
of Water street, and erected the house more recently owned

496 Histo7'y of Stratford.

and occupied by Mr. Abel Drew. The same was removed
in 1870 for the extension of Water street. Later, on Main
street, next north of Isaac Sherman, Captain Gershom E.
Hubbell located. Next to him was Mr. George Smith, and
last on the plot was Captain William Goodsell, who had his
slaughter house on the bank of the creek in the rear of the
dwellings.

Isaac Sherman sold a part of his Main street front to
Capt. Joseph H. Hand from Long Island — the same property
being now owned by Jacob Sutter, and occupied by Mr. C.
P. Coe's wholesale and retail grocery.

A Weaver^s Shop is seen on the diagram, standing
northerly of the dwelling house of Samuel Porter, back from
the highway. It was occupied by both Samuel Porter and
his son of the same name, who were weavers by trade, and
supplied the settlement with the elegant woolen bed cover-
lets,— specimens of which are still preserved in the old
families, woolen cloth and blankets, damask and plain linen.

So far as appears, this building was the first exclusivel}'^
devoted to the manufacturing of goods within the limits of
Bridgeport, and is in very striking contrast with the splendid
and extensive structures of the present day.

The Salt Works, For some reason, probably the scarcity
of salt during and after the close of the second war with Great
Britain, about the year 1818, it was deemed a wise measure
to secure salt of home manufacture, and so prudent and saga-
cious man as the late Isaac Sherman was persuaded that it
was safe to invest capital and labor in it. The beautiful pla-
teau north of Gold street, the property of his brother-in-law,
Samuel Porter, Jr., was selected as the site for the opera-
tions. The location of the evaporating vats is shown on the
diagram. The salt water was pumped from the bay or creek
into the vats, by means of a windmill stationed at or near the
point. No statistics are extant as to the quantity or quality
of the product, but merchantable salt was made.

One mistake as to location became apparent, that the
water of the creek at this point was too much diluted with
the fresh water of its tributaries, which with the increased

Bridgeport. 497

facilities for procuring the West India product, conspired to
render the enterprise unprofitable. The Salt Works, as they
were called, were mentioned in the will of Samuel Porter, jr.,
written in 1828. The unused vats were admirably adapted
to, and improved by the young people, for the game of hide
and seek. They disappeared soon after the year 1830, as re-
membered by persons still living.

The Slaiufhter House is also represented on the dia-
gram. Capt. William Goodsell, who early lived in the old
yellow house which was removed from Main street in 1871 in
order to open Congress street, is believed to have been the
first to fit up and occupy a regular slaughter house here. It
was a barn-like structure standing on the edge of the bluff
and extending almost its whole size over the bank — which
was well washed by each flood tide — the building being sup-
ported by substantial posts. Its site was included in the pur-
chase of the late Benjamin Ray, who had much difficulty in
getting the boundary lines established satisfactorily. In his
numerous and vigorous talks about the matter, well remem-
bered by many, very frequent allusions were made to " Capt.
Goodsell's slaughter house yard."

It is interesting to note how the progress of the settle-
ment moved back the slaughter houses. The next location
was that of Gideon and Eli Thompson on the westerly side
of North Washington avenue, not far from the present loca-
tion of Mulloy's lane, from 1833 to 1843.

From this the same parties removed to what is now the
Thompson farm, a little south of the toll-gate on the Hunting-
ton turnpike, while Smith and Stratton, and their successors,
and Captain Terry, located theirs on the Newtown turnpike
about two miles out of town.

The heavy beef is novv mostly dressed for this market in
Chicago, 111.; transported in refrigerator cars and distributed
from refrigerator depots — two of them located on this same
territory — to be dispensed in steaks and roasts from the re-
frigerators of the local markets.

Saddle Boxes were made also on this territory. The
shipment to markets in the South, of large quantities of sad-

498 History of Stratford.

dies and harness, manufactured here from 1815 to i860, re-
quired many strong- boxes of special form and size. Up to
1849, these were almost exclusively made without machinery,
by Porter Sturges, whose shop and lumber yard were on
Middle street at the present corner of Golden Hill street,
occupied now by the Naugatuck Valley Ice Company. His
assistant when needed, was the late David Wheeler, who
lived on Arch street, and later on the Newtown turnpike
near Beach street.

This work afforded reliable and steady employment for
these men, and with the frugality for which they were both
noted, laid the foundation of handsome estates for each one.

The increased quantity needed and the competition of
machinery, diverted the source of supply to the shops of L.
C. Shepard & Co., about 1850, then located at the site of the
north end of the Atlantic Hotel, the Union House being a
part; and later to Lyon & Curtis, on Simon's wharf.

Cottib JMahingf as a business, was established and con-
ducted here for a while, by Moss K. Botsford.from Newtown,
who purchased of Jesse Sterling, the house on the bank on
the north side of Gold street, at the head of Water street.
This business was very prosperous from about 1830 to 1835.
Bethel and Newtown were largely engaged in it. Some
manufacturers were successful for a time, but the fashions
were extremely changeable, and the business fitful, which led
to many failures; and hence it continued here but a short
time. Mr. Abel Drew, from Derby, was the next owner of
the above-mentioned house.

Cooperaffe. The commerce of the place, especially the
West India trade, and for a number of years the whaling busi-
ness, required a great many casks, and made a lively business
for the coopers. Mr. Drew's shop was on the south shore of
the point, where he employed a number of men, and he, see-
ing, embraced his opportunity, and thus laid the foundation
for his handsome estate.

The HoiisatOihic Hailroad was chartered in 1836, for
a line from Bridgeport to the northern boundary of the state
in the town of Canaan, Litchfield County. The company

Bridgeport. 49^)

was organized, capital subscribed, and right of way secured
to New Milford in 1838. Commencing at a \>q\w\. near the
west approach to the Bridgeport bridge— Fairfield avenue-
it extended northerly across the mud flats and over this
Porter property, making quite a deep cut across it. The
company not only purchased the usual right of way over this
property for main tracks, but secured the entire point east of
its main line, graded it down, using the material towards fill-
ing the roadway across the adjacent mud flats, and then
located their engine house, turn-tables and car-shop thereon.
A wharf was constructed at the extreme point, and the Long
Island skipper connected with Mr. Roswell Lewis' coal and
wood yard, landed thereon the pine wood which was then
used at this end of the line for fuel for the locomotives.
Thus the beautiful bluff was invaded, and its glor}^ departed
before the march of modern utility and progress. The con-
struction and opening of the railroad developed the need of
a foundry and machine shops. This need was measurably
supplied by the late David Wheeler of Park avenue, who was
in 1843 joined by George and J. R. Young, and had their
works in a woo.den building on the same site as the present
Bridgeport Iron Works, which is made land on the mud flats
fronting this Porter property.

The First Center Bridge, When, in 1852, Hon. P. T.
Barnum joined Gen. Wm. H. Noble for the development of
East Bridgeport, they at once realized that they must have
more direct and easier communication with the business por-
tion of the city on the west side of the harbor. Hence they
procured a charter for a bridge; the eastern terminus about
identical with the present Center bridge, while the western
end, spanning the Housatonic railroad track, landed upon the
high bank of this Porter property, for which they made an
appropriate purchase of Mrs. Ellen Porter, the widow of
Samuel Porter, Jr., November 19, 1852. This was reached by
a street which had been opened as a highway by Mr. Porter,
and named by him Summer street, extending northerly from
Gold street a little east of the line of Middle street extended.
After the location of the bridge it was called Bridge street.
By the kindness of General Noble the Historical society has

500 History of Stratford.

a picture of this bridge on its walls, painted in water colors,
showing a condition of the surroundings now most thor-
oughly changed.

When the present Center bridge was constructed in 1869,
the western terminus was changed to Congress street, crossing
the railroad at grade. Middle street was soon after ex-
tended thereto in a direct line and Bridge street was discon-
tinued. In November, 1864, the city purchased this bridge
and appurtenances with the other bridges across the harbor,
and in the adjustment of property interests affected by these
changes, and the extension of Middle street, the city obtained
the site of the present No. 5 engine house.

Previous to the extension of Congress street for the west-
ern terminus of the Center bridge, in 1869, the mud fiats and
low ground on the west side of the Housatonic railroad track
from the Porter property to Lumber street, was flooded
through a water way at the old mill located near the line of
Lumber street and the face of the wharf at that point. The
water was changed and purified each flood tide, but the gate
in the water way retained enough to give at all times a depth
of several feet in the southern portion near this property.

Previous to the introduction of the present water supply
of the city, much dependence was placed upon the salt water
of the harbor for extinguishing fires. This vicinity was
practically shut off from the water front, especially at low
tide, and to remedy this, Mrs. Ellen Porter deeded to the city
an addition to the Bridge street highway, May 19, 1859, ^'^d
opened a way to the water above described, where the city
constructed a platform sufficient to accommodate one of the
hand engines of that period and its company in actual service.

About 1846, the Housatonic Railroad Company removed
their depot both for passengers and freight from near Fairfield
avenue southerly, nearly to the present elevator. A few
years afterwards, having filled and made solid ground of the
mud flats still further south they put up there a round house,
and other necessary shops and buildings. The old engine
house and the long car house remained in their places on the
Porter property many years; also a blacksmith business by
several parties. The veteran blacksmith, Mr. Joseph C. Bar-

Bridgeport. 50,

num, had his shop there for many years until his decease,
February 25, 1883, aged 80 years.

The Bvhlgepot't Boiler Works commenced operations
in 1869, on this (Porter's) point, utilizing some of the old build-
ings, and erecting others. This company embraced the fol-
lowing names: Humphrey, Watson, Farrel, and Chatfield.

In 1870, Farrel and Chatfield retired, and the business
was continued by Humphrey and Watson, until 1872. when
Mr. William Lowe took the place of Mr. Humphrey. Messrs.
Lowe and Watson continued the making of steam boilers suc-
cessfully for ten years, until they were burned out, April 24,
1882. As they were unable to obtain a lease of the premises
for a term of years, they secured a location of Mr. William
H. Perry, adjoining the Housatonic railroad track, farther
north.

The late Mr. Hanford Lyon purchased the water front of a
portion of this property, and improved it, in connection with
that which he previously owned, adjoining it on the south.
This has been occupied as a coal yard by C. M. Noble and
Company, and by Courtland Kelsey, and is now a part of the
extensive yards of Messrs. Miller and Strickland.

Mr. Julius Hawley purchased of the Burroughs family,
the Edwards property, on the south side of Gold street, ex-
tending to the channel of the harbor, which he has improved,
and upon which is located the extensive lumber yards and
steam saw-mill of the Bridgeport Lumber Company.

Messrs. Henry N. and Alonzo J. Beardsley purchased the
water front of Mr. Abel Drew, which carried one-half of the
width of Gold street from the east side of the tracks of the
Consolidated railroads to the channel, which they are leis-
urely filling, and which will become a very valuable property.

The Housatonic Railroad Company have here a fine
property, partly mud flats, which they will no doubt fill to
the harbor line at no distant day. This done, it will afford
room for the return to this point of their engine houses, thus
relieving the crowded condition in the present locality of
their buildings, and facilitating the removal of the tracks of the
Consolidated road from lower Water street, an object most
earnestly to be desired.
33

502

History of Stratford.

The whole plot, much of it forty years ago so quiet and
so pleasant for family homes of the best sort, is now almost
wholly given over to business.

The following list of names of householders, found on a
separate sheet, with the date partly torn off, in the handwrit-
ing of the Rev. Samuel Cooke, the second pastor of the Strat-
field Church, was preserved by the late Isaac Sherman, Esqr.,
and pasted upon a leaf of the manuscript book of his " Rec-
ollections." From the names found upon it, and others well
known which are omitted, the date is known to have been
1733 or 1734. The list contains the names of heads of families
then residing in the parish of Stratfield, and upon an estimate
of five persons to each family there were about seven hundred
persons in the parish.

'■'A List of the Householders in Stratfield Anno Domini, 17-
Disposed Alphabetically.

James Bennitt, Sen'',
Isaac Bennitt,
William Bennitt,
James Bennitt, Jun"",
Stephen Bennitt,
William Beardsle, SenS
Daniel Beardsle,
John Beardsle, Sen'',
Nathan Beardsle,
William Beardsle, Jun'',
Ebenezer Beardsle,
David Beardsle,
John Beardsle, Jun"',
Obadiah Beardsle,
Joseph Booth,
John Burr, Sen^
John Burr, Jun'',
Charles Barrett,
Stephen Burrows,
Samuel Cable,
Israel Chauncej',
Robert Chauncey,
Caleb Cole,
Daniel Comestock,
Samuel Cooke,
Elijah Crane,
Jonah Curtiss,

John Edwards, Sen'',
Thomas Edwards,
John Edwards, Jun'',
Sarah Fayerweather,
John Fa3'erweather,
Abigail Fayerweather,
Deb(jrah Fairchild,
James Fairchild,
Samuel French's widow,
Samuel French,
Ebenezer French,
Samuel Gregory,
Benjamin Gregory,
Ebenezer Gregory,
Thaddeus Gregory,
Enock Gregory,
Francis Hall, Sen'',
John Hall,
Samuel Hall,
Burgess Hall,
Francis Hall, Jun%
Richard Hall,
Elnathan Hall,
Ebenezer Hawley,
James Hawley,
William Hodgden,
Matthew Horn,

Richard Hubbell, Sen''
James Hubbell,
John Hubbell,
Daniel Hubbell,

Stephen Hubbell,
David Hubbell,
Joseph Hubbell,
Ebenezer Hubbell,
Ze':hariah Hubbell,
Richard Hubbell, Jun',
Andrew Hubbell,
Nathan Hurd,
Moses Jackson,
John Jackson's widow,
Gabriel Jackson,
John Jackson,
David Jackson, Sen',
David Jackson, Jun"",
John Jones,
Edward Lacy,
John Lacy,
Ebenezer Lacy,
Zechariah Lawrence,
Matthew McHard,
John Mallet, Sen"',
David Mallet, Jun',

Bridgeport.

503

John Man,
Samuel Martin,
Nicholas Masters,
Zechariah Mead,
John Middlebrook,
Noah Morehouse,
John Odell,
Samuel Odell's widow,
William Odell,
Hezekiah Odell,
Samuel Odell,
Samuel Patchen,
Benjamin Phippeny,
John Porter,
Valentine Rowell,
Henry Rowland,
Zechariah Sanford,
Ezekiel Sanford,
Thomas Sanford,
James Seelye's widow,
Joseph Seelye,

David Sherman, Sen',
David Sherman, Jun',
Enos Sherman,
John Sherwood,
Nathaniel Sherwood,
Matthew Sherwood,
William Smith, Sen',
William Smith, Jun',
John Smith's widow,
Jacob Starling,
Henry Stevens,
Peter Stevens,
Thomas Stoddard,
Samuel Summer's widow,
Henry Summers,
John Summers,
David Summers,
Nathan Summers,
Edward Tredwell,
Deborah Tredwell,
Benjamin Tredwell,

Zechariah Tredwell,
Hezekiah Tredwell,
Samuel Tredwell,
Jacob Tredwell,
Samuel Trowbridge, Sen'
Samuel Trowbridge, Jun'
Jonah Turny,
Robert Turny,
Jonathan Wakely, Sen'.
Henry Wakely,
Joseph Wakely,
Israel Wakely,
Nathaniel Wakely,
Jonathan Wakely, Jun',
Samuel Well's widow,
Samuel Wells,
John Wheeler,
Timothy Wheeler,
Isaac Wheeler,
Ebenezer Wheeler,
Richard Whitny."

CHAPTER XVIII.

STRATFIELD'S EARLY SETTLERS.

OCATING the homes of the early settlers
(|^ is a work costinof much time for research and
study, and but for the manuscript book of
Dea. Isaac Sherman, no attempt would have
been made, either to provide the accom-
panying map, or to prepare the following
biographical sketches. But, since that book
was in existence, largely by the forethought
and perseverance of Dea. Rowland B. Lacey
in fixing Deacon Sherman's attention to it,
before he died, this list became possible, and
has been completed with a considerable de-
gree of accuracy, so far as it goes. It is
not claimed that the list includes all the
early settlers, nor all that could be said of
them, because Deacon Sherman gave only
his recollections of what he had heard and known personally,
and there could not be taken time sufficient to search the
records so thoroughly as to perfect the work, although much
that is given by Deacon Sherman has been confirmed by the

town and society books.'

' Recollections of Isaac Sherman.

The long life of Isaac Sherman in this community and his extensive personal
acquaintance, his familiarity with the church and parish records, his respect for his
own ancestry and his genealogical studies, his intercourse with and fondness for
elderly people, his extensive business associations, his investigations for the estab-
lishment of pension claims, his experience in connection with the settlement and
distribution of estates, all contributed to furnish his observant and retentive mind
with a fund of information in regard to the early settlement and history of Stratfield
and Bridgeport. He could give the exact location of the old families and much
about their descendants, the settlement of the Newfields — now the city of Bridge-
port— the rise and progress of business, and business firms, how composed, where

Bridgeport. 505

JVo. 1, Isaac Wheeler ^ son of Ephraim, one of the first
settlers in Fairfield, in 1644, was a farmer and a large lanrl-
holder, for his mother in 1681, paid tax on 706 acres of land,
Isaac having received his proportion before his father's death
in 1670.

He was one of the nine male members of the first Strat-
field Church at its organization under Rev. Charles Chauncey,
June 13, 1695; which Church is now located in Bridgeport,
called the First Congregational Church.

JVo. 2, Samuel Welles was a farmer with a good larm,
Welles' Tongue being a small part of it. He was the son
of John Welles, and grandson of Governor Thomas Welles,
and this land or farm was first laid out to John Welles and
given in his will to this son Samuel. He had one son, named
David Wakeman Welles.

No. 3, John, Mallett was a Frenchman and a farmer.
Lewis Mallett who resided on the old place was a descendant.
All the Malletts at Tashua are descendants of said John
Mallett.

JVb. 4. Benjamin IFubbell was a farmer. He mar-
ried a half sister of Doct. Stephen Middlebrook, of Trumbull.
They had one son, John Hubbell, who married Betty, daugh-
ter of Joseph Brothwell, and had five daughters : Betsey, who
married Timothy Risley ; Polly, who married Howell Hough ;
Anna, who married Zalmon Hawley. Zalmon Hawley had
Maria, who married Capt. John Brooks, Jr.; Marietta, who
married Capt. Burr Knapp ; and one son John, who died
young.

located, and whether successful or not. No one had attempted to cover the field,
and no one living could do it as he coulH, and, unless by himself committed to
paper, before his decease, it was certain that very much would be inevitably lost.

This consideration was frequently urged upon him for years without success.
After his retirement from public business, his consent to enter upon the work was
gained, the plan as laid out for him pursued, with success, and the result is mani-
fest in these sketches, numbered in regular order for reference to the accompany-
ing map.

To the labors of Esquire Sherman, Dea, Rowland B. Lacey has added about
forty sketches, upon much careful enquiry and research, and the whole forms a
valuable portion of the history of Bridgeport.

5o6 History of Stratford.

l^o. 5. Benjainin Wheeler was a farmer, and was a
grandson of Isaac Wheeler.' Said Benjamin was the father
of Timothy, and grandfather of Benjamin, Ezra and Hannah.

Wo, 6. Samuel Odell, a farmer, was justice of the
peace, and an active member of the church and society.
One of his daughters is now [1856] living, and is over 90
years of age. She is the widow of Samuel Wheeler. Her
name is Julia Wheeler, and she draws a pension for the
services of said Samuel in the Revolution. Samuel Odell
had one son by the name of Maline Odell, who was lost at
sea about the year 1800, in a clipper- built schooner, com-
manded by Capt. Benjamin Wheeler, a descendant of Isaac,
who with all his crew was lost in said schooner, for they were
never heard from after they sailed from New York. Said
Capt. Benjamin Wheeler left a wife and the following child-
ren : ]ra B.; Daniel Odell; Sally, who married Moses Piatt;
Betsey, who married David UfFord, and Marrietta, who mar-
ried Gideon Thompson.

Wo, 7, Capt, Abel Wakelee, a sailor, was lost at sea in
the brig Julius Cassar on a voyage from the West Indies
bound to Bridgeport with a load of salt. The crew and offi-
cers were all saved in the long boat when the brig sunk, ex-
cept Abel and a colored man named Ned, who was a slave
to Capt. Amos Hubbell, the owner of the brig.

Capt. Abel Wakelee's descendants were Charles and
Walker, who have died leaving no children. His widow's
name was Grace.

Wo. 8, William Hose, a Frenchman, was one of the

little colony of Frenchmen in Nova Scotia, at the time Canada
was taken from the French by the English when the colony
was broken up by the order of the English Government be-
fore the Revolution, and distributed among the different
thirteen states. Mr. Rose was landed in this parish and Dr.
Fogg, also, was one of said neutral French who settled in
Fairfield. Mr. Rose was a gardener, and he married Jennette
Mann. His children were : Peter, Mabel, Charity and Polly.

2 This is doubtful. See Wheeler Genealogy.

Bridgeport. 507

Doctor Fogg- was settled in Fairfield and was an accept-
able physician. He died since the Revolution.

William Rose used to fish at a fishwcir in Bridgeport
harbor, in a boat alone, accompanied bv histaithful dog, Lvon.
On one of the fishing days he had the misfortune to fall over-
board and was near being drowned when the dog swam to
him and he clasped the dog's tail and directed him to swim
for the shore. When the dog had towed his master almost t(j
the shore he turned about to swim off, when Mr. Rose in his
broken French, called, *' tudder way, Lyon," and, obeying
his master, drew him to the shore. William Rose died April
21, 18 12, aged 90 years.

JVo. 9. HezeMah Wheeler, a tailor by trade, was em-
ployed in making buckskin breeches, which were in his day
the common wear for men and boys, and were used in some
families as late as the year 1800. He had one son, a sailor,
named Wilson, who was lost at sea. Hezekiah Wheeler, and
his son now living in New York, are descendants of said
Isaac Wheeler.

3^0. A. Brldffepoyt aiul Stvatfiehl lUii'ijiuij
Ground, From the earliest settlement up to 1812, the
"Old Stratfield Burial Ground" was made the resting i)lace
of the dead in Stratfield Parish. At this period, even with
the addition of 1772, the old ground had become too strait,
and, upon petition of James E. Beach and others, to the
October session of the General Assembly of 181 1, showing
that they had purchased a piece of land bounded north on
Silas Sherman; east on highway (Division street), south and
west on Abijah Hawley's land, the said proprietors and their
associates were duly incorporated to be known by the name
of "The Bricigeport and Stratfield Burying Ground Associa-
tion." Lambert Lockwood was named as the first clerk, and
it was especially provided that "said burying ground shall
forever remain and be used as and for a burying ground, and
for that purpose only." Provision was made for its layout
into lots and the proprietor of a lot became a legal member
of the Corporation, and he, his heirs, successors, or assigns,
entitled to one vote for every lot he or they possessed. A
son of Mr. Ezra Wheeler was the first child and Mr. Elijah

5o8 History of Stratford.

Burr was the first adult buried in tiiis ground in 1812. Upon
petition to the General Assembly at the May session, 1835, an
addition was made at the west end.

Here nearly two generations were laid from 18 12 to 1850,
about 4,000 interments.

For some years the immediate vicinity had become so
thickly settled that it had become an unsuitable place for a
cemetery, and in 1849 Mountain Grove Cemetery was inau-
gurated. About i860, special efforts began to be made to get
a vote in this association for removal to Mountain Grove or
some other point, but met with most decided opposition, as
did repeated efforts.

The agitation of the subject for a general removal made
many proprietors timid in respect to the permanency of their
tenure, and numerous voluntary removals were made to
Mountain Grove and elsewhere. The vacated and unused
lots were bought up by parties desiring removal until they
held a majority, and under an Act or Resolution of the Gen-
eral Assembly of May, 1873, the removal was consummated
during the years 1873 and 1874, under commissioners named
in said Act. Hon. P. T. Barnum became the purchaser of
the entire territory through David VV. Sherwood, his agent,
and the removals were made largely under supervision of
George Poole to the westerly side of the grounds in Moun-
tain Grove Cemetery, numbering in all over three thousand.
The site on the westerly side of Park avenue is now, in 1885,
mostly covered by streets and cottages, and no vestige of its
former use appears.

No, 10. William Mubbell was by occupation a house
painter. His children were David, and Grizell, and other
daughters.

Justin Smith,^ a native of Springfield, Mass., was a
stone-cutter, specially skilled in working the brown stone of
the Chatham, now Portland, quarries in Connecticut. In
1789, he embarked from that place with a vessel load of the
Chatham stone, his family and household goods destined for
Mill river at Fairfield, but his load was not consigned.

' This name is not located on the map.

Bridgeport. 509

In a stress of weather he ran his vessel into Brid^a-port
harbor, where, while weatherbound, he made some acijuaint-
ance, through which some of the leading men learned who he
was, what his cargo, and his skill as a stone-cutter, and per-
suaded him to unload the vessel and establish himself and
business here.

The many fine brown stone tablets and head-stones in the
old Stratfield burying-ground and many others that were put
up in the Division Street (Stratfield and Bridgeport) ceme-
tery, and removed thence to Mountain Grove Cemetery,
attest his skill and industry. His residence was on the site
now occupied by the dwelling of Mr. F. VV. Marsh, No. 240
Park avenue, and he was a most excellent Christian man.
He died March 17, 1835, aged 81 years. His wife was Mary
Fox, of Chatham. She survived her husband fourteen years
and died May 21, 1849, ^t the great age of 92 years.

Their children were Abner and Justin, who both died
young, and Sophia, Mary and Mehitable. Sophia married
Robert Treadwell, son of David, and removed to Southbury.
Mary married Agur Beach, of Trumbull, and Mehitable mar-
ried Eli Oilman and lived in Hartford.

Mary (Smith) Beach still survives and lacks but a tew
days of 93 years of age — bright and well, although a little
lame, — and is anticipating great pleasure in celebrating her
93d birth-day, on the 24th of September, 1885.

Her husband, Agur, was the son of Everett Beach and
his wife Rebecca, daughter of the Rev. James Beebe, of
North Stratford. He died of fever in New York city, where
he was in business, October 7, 1822, aged 31 years, leaving a
widow and two young daughters with slender means.

On the death of her father she established herself at the
parental homestead and took the entire care of her aged
mother while she lived.

For many years, each season has brought out a store of
her handiwork in knitted articles of personal wear and of bed
quilts, nicely pieced for quilting, for the Home Missionary
boxes. With the completion of the pair of hose now nearly
done, she will have knitted for and donated one hundred pair
of stockings to the Home of the Friendless in New York

510 History of Stratford.

City, besides her numerous gifts in her more immediate
vicinity.

She is probably the oldest person living in the town of
Bridgeport, at least the oldest native born, and seems likely
to become a centenarian.

H^o. 11. Cwpt. Samuel WakeleCf a shipmaster, em-
ployed before the Revolution in transporting passengers from
Europe. He was a brother of Zebulon Wakelee. On one of
his voyages his provisions failed and he and the crew were
reduced to a state of starvation before they obtained relief.

JVo, 12. Ca2)t. WiUiani Worden was a farmer and
house carpenter. He was captain of a militia company, called
Householders, in the Revolution. The company was raised
in the parish, and they were not liable to do ordinary military
duty.

He was a tall, spare built, leading man in the town
and society, and was quite aged at the time of his death. He
came here from an eastern town, and was a strong Whig, as
most of the inhabitants were at the time of the Revolution.
He had sons Samuel and William, and grandsons Thomas
Cook, William, Levi, Abijah and Daniel. Capt. William
Worden married a daughter of Samuel Odell, Esqr.

JVo. 13, Justus Burr was a farmer, and son of Col.
John Burr. His children were, John, Aaron, Comfort, and
two other daughters.

Justus Burr was killed in his own barn, when he was
drawing in a load of hay. being crushed by the oxen running
through a small door.

iVb. 14. E^ra Kirtland was a blacksmith by trade.
He came to this place before the Revolution, from Walling-
ford. He owned a farm on the old Golden Hill road, now
called Washington avenue, which contained a part of the land
on which the village of the Pequonnock Indians was located
at the first settlement of the parish. The Kirtland family
appear to have owned all the land south of Washington ave.
as far east as the spring lot beyond Courtland street and south
to the present line of Fairfield avenue.- He was the ancestor

Bridgeport. 5 i [

of all the Kirtlands of this parish. He married a dauj^jiter
of Zebulon Wakelee and had two sons — Zebuhjii and Ezra.
Zebulon, Jr., married Betty Cook, a grand-dauj^hter of the
Rev. Samuel Cook, and Ezra married Sarah, daughter of
Benjamin Wheeler.

jVo. 15, Ciipt, Joseph Knap}}, Sm., was for many
years master of a coasting vessel employed in carrying grain
and other products for the farmers, from this place to Boston,
which coasting trade was profitable from the first settlement
of the parish down to about the year 1835.

Before the Revolution there were four or five vessels
employed in this trade, but after the war there was an average
number of about ten.

The first merchants in Bridgeport purchased their goods
in Boston until about the year 1790, after which thev i)ur-
chased in New York.

He was a thin, spare man about five feet nine inches ; was
prominent in the town and society and lived to be quite aged.
He had three children : Joseph, Jr., Patience and Ruth.
Joseph, Jr., was recently killed by the fall of a tree when he
was about 80 years of age. He was a shoemaker by trade
and occupied the same house his father did.

i\ro. 10. Thaddeus Gregovif was a merchant and
house joiner. On being chosen to some military office he
came out in front of the company with his hat off to make his
acknowledgments, but when he had proceeded so far in a
speech as to sa}', "fellow soldiers," he gave up in despair,
and putting his hand on his breast exclaimed, " it is in here
but I cannot get it out." He and his wife were both mem-
bers of the church in 1731. He died in 1777 aged JJ years.

Wo, 17, Zebulon Wakelee, a farmer, lived on the east
side of Division street on old Meeting-house Hill, nearly oppo-
site where the first meeting-house was built.

He had one daughter, named Olive, who married Ezra
Kirtland, Sen. Zebulon Wakelee died in 1767, aged 55 years.

Wo, 18, The old first Congregational meeting-house in
the wilderness on Meeting-house Hill was built about the

512 History of Stratford.

year 1693. The church was gathered, June 13, 1695, and the
Rev. Charles Chauncey, a son of the Rev. Israel Chauncey of
Stratford, was ordained their pastor.

The first settlers were called together by the beat of the
drum, and carried arms to defend the congregation from an
attack by Indians.

This first meeting-house was probably located on the
town line between Fairfield and Stratford, half in one town
and half in the other, or directly in the middle of the high-
way, on the hill, for the town of Stratford voted the liberty
to set part of it on its territory.* It was a small house, and
was in use only twenty-four years, when the second one was
built.

No. 19. Hev, Charles Chauncey was the first pastor
of the "Church of Christ in Stratfield." For a sketch of him
see page 479 of this book.

JSfo. 20. Andrew Sherwood was a farmer and black-
smith. His sons were David and Zachariah Sherwood.

J^o. 21. The School House of the old south district
was located, previous to about 1830, on the westerly side of
Division street, a few rods south of the present North avenue.
The traveled roadway diverged to the east at that point to
avoid a ledge of rocks, under the lea of which, at the southerly
side, there was a level space of sufficient size to accommodate
the house.

The character of the school at that time was rather supe-
rior, since some of the older scholars at the Fresh Pond dis-
trict attended here because of the advantages it afforded.

JS^o. 22. The Second Meeting -house*^ was located on
the old Fairfield and Stratford country road ; was erected in
1717, and taken down about the year 1835. It was occupied
by the First Congregational Society until the year 1807,
when this society built by subscription a new frame meeting-
house in the village of Bridgeport on land donated by Richard
and Amos Hubbell, on the corner of Bank, Broad and John

^ See page 474 of this book. ^'^ See page 4S2.

Bridgeport . q \ ?

Streets, which frame church was sold to Christ Church and
removed into John street, where a few vcars later it was
burned. The first Congregational Society erected their
fourth church, built in 1850, on the same site where the third
stood.

Ifo, 23, Rev. Satnuel Coohe was the second pastor of
the Church of Christ at Stratfield. For a sketch of him see
page 484 of this book.

iVb. 24:. Lewis Angevine, a Frenchman, and by occu-
pation a weaver, left no descendants, if he had any, Mrs. \V.
R. Bunnell owns the land on which his house stood. An
anecdote has been related of him, which gives an insight into
his character.

" When he was courting his wife at a place where he was
not known, he represented to her that he was well off as to
property, and that if she would marry him she should never
wash her hands in cold water. Soon after marriage she re-
minded him of this promise, upon which he replied that she
need not wash in cold water for she could warm it."

^o. 2S. Capt. Thaddeus Heimrft, a shoemaker and
farmer, was the captain of the trainband at the commence-
ment of the Revolutionary War and went to New York with
his company in August, 1776, to defend the city against the
British troops. His company suffered considerable loss by
death, and the captain died soon after returning home from
the campaign in 1777. He left two sons— Joseph Wilson
Bennett and Thaddeus Bennett, and two daughters, Grizell
and Sarah Bennett, both of whom were pensioners for the
service of their husbands in the Revolution. Gri/ell married
Isaac Odell, who was a sergeant in the army, and Sarah mar-
ried Nathan Fairchild,

JVo. 26. Ziieut, David Sherman was a farmer, and
lieutenant of the militia company of Stratfield, and a leading
public man in the town and society. He was the son of Mat-
thew Sherman, and died aged 60 years, and was buried in the
old parish burying ground. He erected the old two-story,
long-back-roof dwelling house in the year 1717. It was in

514 History of Stratford.

the common style of New England farm houses, and stood
near the spot where Mr. John H. Beach's house now stands.
His homestead contained about one hundred acres, besides
woodland at Toilsome and a large farm at Tashua. Lieut.
David Sherman was nephew to Deacon David Sherman, who
sa3's in his will : " I do make and ordain my well-beloved
kinsman, David Sherman, my sole executor of this my last
will and testament." He had three sons — Elnathan, Jonathan
and David. Jonathan never married. Elnathan married
Eunice Gregory.

David married Mary Sterling and occupied his father's
house and homestead. He was killed by lightning in the old
Pequonnock meeting-house July 28, 1771.

The said David that was killed in the meeting-house had
three children — Huldah, who married Doct. James E. Beach,
David, the father of Esquire Isaac Sherman, the author of
these sketches, and Isaac, who died young.

JVo. 2K » Doctor Jmnes Eaton Beach, was a descend-
ant on his mother's side of Gov. Theophilus Eaton, of the
New Haven Colony, and came from New Haven to Stratfield
about the year 1778, where he settled as a parish physician.

He married, about 1780, Huldah, daughter of David
Sherman, Jr., and Mary (Sterling) Sherman, and erected his
dwelling on the Sherman property a few rods north of the
homestead.

He had a wide practice, was a capable and public spirited
man. He was especially helpful to young men of good char-
acter and habits in starting in business, aiding them by his
name, counsel and capital.

He was the responsible member of the following firms,
and perhaps others:

Beach and Sterling, in 1794 (David Sterling), who were
merchants in dry goods, groceries and drugs.

Beach and Sterling, in 1804 (Jesse Sterling), merchants in
dry-goods, groceries and drugs.

Beach and Sterling, in 181 5 (Sylvanus Sterling), mer-
chants in dry goods, groceries and drugs.

Beach and Sherman (Isaac Sherman and Sterling Sher-
man) groceries, grain business, and New York packeting.

Bridgeport.

5'3

The Juniors in eacii of these firms were the active part-
ners and conducted the business, while Doctor Beach fur-
nished the capital and for which he received interest and a
share of the profits, which appear to have been very satisfac-
tory.

Doctor Beach was active and inllucntial in the Stratficld
Congregational Church, and for many years served it as
chorister. He was deacon from 1806 to 1830, and gave a sil-
ver tankard for the communion service, which is still in use,
in the First Congregational Church of Bridgeport. He died
in 1838, aged 75 years.

His children were, a son Isaac Eaton, and daughters
Polly and Laura.

Isaac Eaton Beach lived at the homestead, enlarged for
his accommodation, and his descendants occupy the ancestral
lands.

Polly Beach married Sylvanus Sterling and lived at what
is now No. 84 Golden Hill street. Mr. Sterling died in 1848,
and Mrs. Sterling in 1866, leaving no children, but a consid-
erable estate.

By the will of Mrs. Sterling the homestead was given to
the First Congregational Society of Bridgeport for a parson-
age, and after providing for friends, the residue was given to
the society known as the Bridgeport Protestant Widows'
Relief Society for the establishment of a Home and for gen-
eral aid, and the society has become one of the leading char-
ities of Bridgeport.*

Laura Beach married Ira Sherman, a descendant of Lieut.
David (No. 26) through Elnathan (No. 34), and always resided
at what is now No. 247 Main street, dying at an advanced
age. Their only daughter, Mary B. Sherman, married James
C. Loomis, Esq.

Both Mrs. Sterling and Mrs. Sherman were remarkable
for their large charities while living, giving liberally in the
line of the religious charities of the Congregational Church
with which they were connected ; and also to numerous

5 The Sterling Home was incorporated at the January session of the General
Assembly in 1S85.

5i6 History of Stratford.

widows, orphans and families whose needy circumstances
came to their knowledge.

3^0. 2H. Jahez Sherman was a farmer and removed
to New Haven about the time of the Revolutionary War.

No, 29. Josiah Treadwell was a weaver by trade.
His house was in the common style, two stories, and lighted
with diamond window glass set in lead sash. His children
were: Josiah, Jr., Samuel, Elijah, and three daughters. One
married Thomas Cook, one married John Wheeler, and one
married Mr. Turney, of Fairfield. His house being old was
taken down soon after he died in 1798.

No. 30. Satnuel Treadwell was a weaver, and son of
Josiah. He married first Rachel Barnum, and had sons Sam-
uel, Jr., and Barnum. He married second, Mercy Babcock,
from Rhode Island. She was high-spirited and used to say
she was of high blood, and that she did not come from any
mean family.

They were low in circumstances, some years, during
which a friend coming to see her, she remarked : " My hus-
band is generally a good provider, although he is a little slack
just now."

JVo. 31. JEnocJi Greffory was a large farmer and slave
holder. He had one slave named Neptune, born in Africa,
who had a son called after the master's family, Tony Greg-
ory, who was an honest Negro. Enoch Gregory's children,
Samuel, Daniel and Plumb, and others, settled at Tashua.

No. 32. Andrew Heardsley was a weaver. John W.
Beardsley, and Henry and Rufus Burr, and the wife of Mr.
Joseph Mott, all residents of Bridgeport, are among his de-
scendants.

No. 33, John Hall was a weaver. His descendants
are not remembered, except a daughter Julia, who mar-
ried Squire Lacey as first husband, and afterwards the Rev.
Nathaniel Ruggles, who, in connection with the Rev. John
N. Maffit, was the founder of the first M. E. Church in the
city of Bridgeport in 1822.

Bridgeport. 5 , 7

1^0, 34, Elncithan Sherman was a son of Lieutenant
David. His wife, Eunice (Gregory) Sherman, died in 1793,
in a fit, while kneading bread. They had sons : Abijah and
Ebenezer, and daughters, Sarah, who married Stephen Ster-
ling, Hannah, and Mary. One of these married Thomas
Edwards.

Ko. 3o. JosepJi Hall, a farmer and a buckskin leather
dresser, died at Toilsome, aged 94 years. He and his
children were among the first Methodists in this parish.
He had one son, named Hezekiah, and three daughters:
Alice, married Ebenezer Brown ; Molly married Stephen
Wells, and Ruth never married. The whole family lived to
a good old age and never disgraced their religious profession.

JVo. 36. Ca2)t. Samuel Slierivood was a farmer and a
slave owner. He married Ann, daughter of Theophilus
Nichols, by whom he came into possession of a portion of
New Pasture Point, which was afterwards called Sherwood's
Point, from which vessels were loaded for the West Indies.
His children were: Lucy, who married Capt. David Barlow ;
Philemon, who married Hepzibah Burr, a daughter of Justus
Burr and granddaughter of Col. John Burr, and David, who
never married.

JS^o, 37, The Toilsome School-house^ in Toilsome
district, was occupied many years b}' a school-master who
bore the honorable title of Master Wheeler.' He married
Dolly, daughter of Deacon David Sherman; had a daughter
named Dolly, and one named Eunice. Deacon Sherman died
in 1753, after which Master Wheeler occupied his house.
Also, he had another daughter, who married Abijah Beard-
sley. She drew a pension for her husband's service in the
Revolution. She lived to a good old age at Fresh Pond, near
the brick house now occupied by Joseph Seeley, Esqr.

^o, 38. Samuel JB}'insmade, a cabinet-maker, mar-
ried Peninah Burritt, and had no children. He was the only

• His name was John Wheeler.
34

5i8 History of Stratford.

very proud man in the parish; was a fine looking man. He
cultivated peaches, pears and apples for market.

JVo. 39. Dea. Henry Moivlandf a farmer, married
Dea. David Sherman's daughter Tamar in 1718. He was the
grandson of Henry Rowland, who came to Fairfield from
the county of Essex in England. He was chosen Deacon of
the Stratfield Church in 1756 and died 1775 at the age of 84
years. Rev. David Sherman Rowland, of Windsor, Conn.,
was his son. Dea. Rowland B. Lacey, of Bridgeport, is also
a descendant, through another son Edmund.

JVo. 40. Dea, David Sherman was a large farmer
and one of the first generation of settlers in said parish. His
house and homestead were on the top of Toilsome Hill — a
large, two-story dwelling with a long back roof, built in the
best style of his day, with a high porch in front and small
diamond windows, set in lead sash. He was one of the first
nine male members of the first Congregational Church. He
was the son of Mr. Samuel Sherman, of Stratford, who came
from the town of Dedham, county of Essex in England.

Old Mr. Elijah Burritt, when he was 96 years of age, told
me that David Sherman was the first deacon of said Church,
that he had been well acquainted with him ; was at his fune-
ral, and that he was gifted in prayer and took the lead in the
meetings when the pastor was absent;' and was very much
esteemed in the parish. His gravestone, standing in the
western part of the old burying-place, bears the titled inscrip-
tion, " Capt. David Sherman." He had nine daughters, all
of whom were married and appear to have been well settled
in life.

JVo. 41. Samuel Mdivards was a farmer. His son,
Shelton Edwards, when a lad about fifteen years of age, was
clerk in the store of David and John DeForest ; the store
then standing on the corner of State and Water streets in
Bridgeport in 1796. In the autumn of the year about ten
o'clock in the evening, young Edwards was murdered in the
store by his skull being broken in three places by a shoe-

'' Esquire Isaac Sherman says this.

Bridgeport. 5,^

maker's hammer, and his throat cut from car to car. His
body was then wrapped in his bed ch)thes and put under the
counter and the store set on fire. David and John DcForest
were young men unmarried, and affirmed that their store was
robbed of over one thousand dollars in hard money at the
time of said murder. There was no bank-note currency at
that time. No clue to said murder has ever been found. The
store was soon discovered to be on fire, and the fire was put
out before much damage was done. A piece of broadcloth
was found under a lot of boards near the store. This casualty
caused the failure of the DeForest brothers. David went to
the Brazils, where he made a fortune and obtained the title
Don David DeForest. He married a Miss Wooster and re-
turned to New Haven, where he built a house.

No, 42, Bhenezer Hall was a farmer, and married
for his second wife the widow of Capt. Thaddeus Bennett.
Seth Hall was his son, and was a poet and post-rider for
many years. He and his father were both old men when
the}'^ died. The Halls in this parish appear to be a long-lived
race.

No. 43. Nathaniel Sherwood was an early settler
and a farmer. He was the son of Samuel, the son of Matthew.
He lived on Toilsome Hill, and married one of the nine
daughters of Dea. David Sherman. He had one son, Samuel,
and a daughter, Eunice, who married Abijah Sterling.

No. 44, Gurdon Shevivood was a farmer and married
Hannah Hawley. He died 3'oung, leaving no children. He
died with the small-pox taken the natural way. His widow
married a Mr. Penfield of Fairfield. She gave in her will one
share of Connecticut bank stock to the First Congregational
Society in Bridgeport, the interest or dividend to be applied
to the use of said societ}' forever. She was a member of this
Church, and died aged about 83 years.

No. 45, Capt. John Edwards was a native of Scot-
land, and came to this country about the year 1700. lie was
an officer in the army in Scotland when he was taken pris-
oner, and as he was a rebel against the government he was
sentenced to be shot, and on the way to the place of execu-

5 20 History of Stratford.

tion, guarded by a company of light horse, he made his escape
and hid himself under a bridge. They searched for him
under the bridge where he was, but did not find him. From
this place he made his way to a vessel, on board of which he
came to this country. It is supposed that he landed at Black
Rock harbor, and that he built his house on Chestnut Hill^
the country being a wilderness, so that he would be concealed
from any ships that might be looking after him. From his
dwelling he could overlook Black Rock harbor. He was
known by the title of Duke, but on his gravestone he bears
the title of Captain. He died aged 88 years, about the year
1740, and is buried with his wife Mary in the old Stratfield
burying-place, near the southwest corner.

He gave a silver cup to the first Congregational Church
in Bridgeport that is now used in the communion service.

He is the ancestor of nearly all by the name of Edwards
in this region of country. " He was," says Esquire Sherman,
"grandfather to my grandmother, Betty Edwards, who mar-
ried my grandfather, John French. So that I am part Scotch
blood and part English."

JVo. 4rS. Dea. Abel Seeley was a farmer, but left no
descendants. He left his estate to Capt. Elijah Peet, his
adopted son.

^o. 47. Jackson*s Mill, The first settler here by the
name of Jackson was Henry, who came from Watertown,
Mass. The family was prominent and somewhat numerous
in the early period of Fairfield and Stratfield, though now
scarcely represented.

Henry Jackson, who sold his Fairfield Mill to Thomas
Morehouse, probably erected a mill on this location about
1667. Mary Jackson was admitted to full fellowship in the
Stratfield Church from the Church in Norwalk, Conn., Dec.
20, 1697.

In the Acts of the General Assembly, May, 1701, defining
the boundary line of Stratfield Parish : It is ordered and
enacted, "That the line to be the west boundary of the said
plantation shall run so that it may include within their bounds
one Moses Jackson, Miller, his housing and lands, and run on
the west side of old Jackson's lotts, viz., pasture, building lot
and long lot."

Bridgeport,

521

In Fairfield Town Record.* under date Au^. 14, 1731,
Moses Jackson is said to have "had (luiet possession of his
mill for fifteen years last past." In the list of Householders,
made by Rev. Samuel Cooke, in 1733 or 1734, the following
names occur: Moses Jackson, John Jackson, widow Gabriel
Jackson, John Jackson, David Jackson, Sen., David Jackson.
Jr, The lands of this family seem to have been located on
the westerly side of Truck street.

3^0. 4:8, Silas Hawley was a farmer and has no de-
scendants now living in this parish. His house was owned
and occupied by Amos Burr, Esqr.

No, 49, John Nichols was a farmer, blacksmith and
inn-keeper. General Washington stopped at his house as he
was going to meet General Lafayette at Rhode Island. Oppo-
site to his house there is now standing one of the mile stones

BENJAMIN franklin's MILE-STONE.

erected by Benjamin Franklin before the Revolution, when
he was Colonial Postmaster General. He measured the old

Book B., page 520.

522 History of Stratford.

country stage-road from Philadelphia to Boston, by an ingen-
ious device affixed to his carriage as he passed over the road,
which marked the miles, and at the end of each mile he
caused a stone to be erected with the number of miles from
one important place to another, cut on each stone.

The Nichols house is still standing on the corner of said
road, and the public parade ground is near it and near the
old burying-place.

John Nichols owned a slave named Tom, who ran away
from his master and was never recovered.

JVo. 50, Williafn JBuri% Esq,, was a merchant and
justice of the peace, and a descendant of Col. John Burr.
The site of his house is now occupied by the new house of
Sherwood Sterling, Esq.

No, 51, Joseph Strong, Esq., was a farmer, and jus-
tice of the peace. His children were John Strong, the only
son; and daughters Deborah, Sarah, Charity, Ann, and Com-
fort. Deborah married David Sterling. Charity married Ira
Jones, the first printer of a paper called the American Tele-
graph, in Bridgeport, in company with Lazarus Beach, about
the year 1796.

NOo 52, Hev, Robert Moss was born in America, in
1726, of Irish parents ; was graduated at Princeton College
in 175 1, receiving his diploma from President Burr, and or-
dained pastor of the Stratfield Church, November 28, 1753,
and labored as such for more than forty-two years. He was
a strong Whig in the Revolution, and when the first military
company was raised in 1775 to go to Canada to take Fort St.
John's it was mustered in his door yard, where they all
kneeled down while he offered prayer, and I believe it to be
a fact that all of the company returned in safety, says Esquire
Sherman.

He published a sermon, from these words : " And there
were great searchings of heart for the divisions of Reuben."
He also made a grammar and spelling book for schools.

He was about six feet in height, well-proportioned, and
of rather imposing presence. He wore a wig, cocked hat,

Bridgeport. 523

ruffled bosomed shirt, black coat, vest and breeches, with
white topped boots, cramped so as to set tight on the instep.
As he was once on a journey he got them wet, and, having
pulled them off to dry could not get them on again; there-
fore he tied them with his mail straps to his saddle, and on
his way he met parson Bellamy, when they commenced the
old dispute about foreordination and free will.

Parson Ross was of the Old Light party, and was consid-
ered orthodox, and parson Bellamy was of the New Light
party. "Now," said parson Ross, "You think you can
reconcile foreordination with free will?" "Yes." "Well,
you can even tell why my boots are tied on behind me?"
This he could not do, and in it parson Ross had an illustra-
tion, for he believed in election, foreordination and free will,
but denied the power of man to reconcile them.

Parson Ross, on a certain occasion preached a sermcjn
before the Association ; and tradition reports that at the close
of the sermon he said: " My brethren, we are charged in the
text to be wise as the serpent and harmless as the dove, but I
think we ought to be cunninger than the serpent, which is
the Devil; we ought to outwit him."

Parson Ross was a slave-holder and owned one African
slave by the name of Pedro. He held no slaves after the
Revolution.

He resigned his pastorate April 30, 1796, and died August
29, 1799, of a fever, and within twenty-four hours Mrs. Ross
died of the same disease, and they were both buried in the
same grave. Their only son then living, Merrick Ross, died
nine days after, and was buried also in the same grave. He
had an elder son who was drowned in his father's well. He
also had a daughter Sarah.

JVb. 53, Henjamin Fayevweathev was a farmer, and
was the owner of Fayerweather's Island, where Black Rock
light house now stands. He had one son, Nathaniel, who
married Charity Summers, and they had, James, Daniel, and
Polly, who married William Eaton. Nathaniel Fayerweather
was taken prisoner by the British on Long Island Sound and
confined in prison in what was afterward Dr. Spring's old

524 History of Stratford.

Brick Church, which was then in possession of the enemy
and was used as a prison. He died of small-pox in this prison.
His widow died in this parish aged over 90 years. She was
a convert of the Rev. Samuel Blatchford, and was a mother
in Israel.

iVo. 54z, First Protestant JEpiscopal Church in the

parish. The Episcopalians in the parish of Stratfield, erected
in 1748, a small frame church with a steeple surmounted with
a gilt weather-cock ; that device being used as emblematical
of the crowing of the cock when the Apostle Peter denied
his Lord.

Said Church was opened for service in 1749, and called
St. John's Church. It was built near Church lane, about a
quarter of a mile west of the Pequonnock meeting-house.
It was not finished until 1789, when it was consecrated 'by the
Right Rev. Bishop Seabury.

This Church was taken down in the year 1801 and rebuilt
at the city of Bridgeport on the corner of State and Broad
streets, retaining the same name, and it being the same church
that is now, in 1856, under the pastoral care of the Rev.
Gurdon S. Coit. The Rev. Philo Shelton was its first pastor,
who commenced his labors in 1779, and died in 1825, aged
about 70 years.

The principal proprietors in building this Stratfield
Church were Col. John Burr, John Holburton, Timothy
Wheeler, Joseph Seeley, John Nichols, Richard Hall and
Samuel Beardsley. The land on which the Church stood was
opened to commons on the east side of Church lane, and con-
tained about half an acre.

No, 55, John Holburton, from England, was a farmer.
He had children, Thomas, William, and one daughter, who
married Capt. Stephen Summers, of Cow Hill. She was the
mother of one son, Stephen, who married Betsey Young, and
of four daughters, — Charity, who married Capt. Wilson
Hawley; Polly, who married Capt. Abijah Hawley ; Grizell,
who married Capt. Aaron Hawley, and Ruth, who married
Mr. Nathaniel Wade.

Bridgeport. 525

No, 56, Samuel Cable, a cooper by trade anrl inn-
keeper, was a large, strong man and lived to a good old age.
He had sons Samuel and William, and daughters Charity ?nd
Ann. Samuel Cable, Sen., came here from a place called
Compo, near Saugatuck. He married, first, Mary Porter, of
Stratford.

No, 57, Sevfft, Jahez Summers was a farmer. His
children were: Jabez, Jr., and Mary, who married Mr. Seth
Sherman; and Alice, who never married. He was a slave-
holder.

No, B. The Parsonage Lot, containing three acres
of land at Pequonnock, was given to the Stratfield Society by
the wife of the Rev. Robert Ross, for the use and benefit of
the pastor for the time being. The deeds are recorded in the
Society's book, and in Fairfield and Stratford town records.

No, 58, Abel Leivis was by occupation a cabinet-
maker, and was the father of Ichabod Lewis, who removed
from the place since the Revolutionary War. There are
none of his descendants now living in this parish.

No. 59. Jacob Sterlhif/f an early settler, came from
England, and was a ship carpenter. He came to Cape Cod,
thence to Haverhill, from which place he fled at the time the
Indians massacred most of the inhabitants. He went to
Lyme, Conn., and came thence to this parish. My paternal
grandmother was his granddaughter and the wife of David
Sherman, who was killed by lightning in the old Pequonnock
meeting-house in 1771.

Jacob Sterling married Mrs. Hannah (Odell) Seeley, of
Fairfield. His descendants are quite numerous. He resided
first at Fresh Pond.

No, 60, Abijah Sterlinfj, JEsqr., son of Stephen and
grandson of Jacob Sterling, No. 59, was a farmer, a public
spirited man, for man}' years a representative to the Gen-
eral Assembly, and was a fine looking man, — one of nature's
noblemen. He had only a common school education ; was
justice of the peace, and general arbitrator and peace maker
in the parish. He owned a carriage, called a chaise, in the

526 History of Stratford.

autumn of 1776, it being without a top. He heard that my
father, David Sherman and Esquire Sterling, brother of
Stephen, then with the Stratfield militia company, under
command of Capt. Thaddeus Bennett in the city of New
York, were, with many of the company, sick and dying with
dysentery, and he went after them with his carriage. He
found the two sick in a barn at Harlem, Capt. Bennett hav-
ing discharged them so that they might try to get home.
He, like the good Samaritan, put them both into his carriage,
and then led the horse until they arrived at home, where both
recovered.

Lieut. Edward Burroughs of the same company and of this
parish, died with the same distemper after he reached home.

1^0. 61, tTaines Sawlei/f was a farmer, and a descend-
ant of Joseph Hawley, one of the first settlers in the old town
plot of Stratford. Stephen Hawley, now living in Bridge-
port, is descended from him.

iVo. 62. Dea. Joseph JBooth was a farmer and a lead-
ing man in the town and church. He was chosen Deacon of
the Stratfield Church in 1733, and died in 1763.

No. 63. Eliphalet Jennings was a farmer at Fresh
Pond, and lived on the place now occupied by James Porter.
He married Sarah, the only daughter of Parson Ross. They
have descendants now (1856), living, namely: Capt. Robert
R. Jennings and James Jennings and others, children of said
Captain Jennings. These are the only descendants of parson
Ross.

Wo. 64. Deacon Seth Slievnian was descended from
Lieut. David Sherman, through Elnathan and Ebenezer Sher-
man, and conducted a tanning and currying business on these
premises. He was Deacon of the Stratfield Congregational
Church from 1799 to his death, August 7, 1807. He married
Mary, daughter of Jabez Summers. His children were Anson,
who married Priscilla Hoyt ; Rowland, who died young, and
Polly, who married Southard.

The tanning and currying business was continued here a
number of years by Samuel Peet and James French. The

Bridgeport. 527

late John Plumb, E. Allen Parrott, and Thomas Ward, jr.,
were among their apprentices. The fine residence now located
upon the premises was built by Eli Thompson about 1857.

iVb. G5, Hamuel French was a farmer at Fresh Pond,
and lived where the house of Eben French now (1856) stands.
He married a daughter of Samuel Sherman, of Old Mill, and
is the ancestor of all who bear the name of French in this
region of country.

JSo. 66, Hope Walk of A. & VV. Hawley.

^o. 67. ^enoni French^ the son of Samuel French,
was a farmer and lived in the house (1856) owned by Henry
Olmstead. He had no sons and only one daughter, who mar-
ried Freeman Lewis, the father of the late Alanson Lewis,
and Mrs. Eliakim Hough.

Wo. 68, District School House at Fresh Pond.

Wo. 69, Ahijiih Heardsley was a farmer and black-
smith. He married Drusilla, daughter of Master Wheeler,
of Toilsome Hill. She was about 90 years of age when she
died. She received a pension for the services of her husband
in the Revolution. They had sons Anson, Wheeler and
Abijah. Abijah. Jr., when about twenty years of age went as
a seaman from Bridgeport in 1805, in a brig commanded by
Capt. Samuel Hawley, to Antigua, on which voyage he was
taken by an English press-gang and forced on board an Eng-
lish man-of-war, where he was put on ship's duty for a cruise
for several months, until the man-of-war returned to Antigua.

Through the aid of Sylvanus Sterling and Robert South-
worth, who were then doing business there, he was liberated
from the man-of-war and sent home in a brig bound for Wash-
ington, North Carolina in the month of January, 1806. I was
then employed in a schooner belonging to the owner of said
brig, of which schooner my brother David Sherman was
master. Both vessels being at anchor at Ocracock Bar, we
went on board the brig to make the captain a visit. Soon
after we got on board the captain said: "I have a country-
man of yours on board, I will call him and see if you know

528 History of Stratford.

him." Soon a poor ragged sailor boy came into the cabin,
and, although we were intimate with him at home, we could
not recognize him because his sufferings had been so great on
the brig, they having been on allowance of a potato a day for
a number of days. His joy at seeing us was very great, but
still greater when we told him we would furnish him suitable
clothing and give him a passage to New York. We brought
him home, to the great joy of his widowed mother.

Soon after he shipped on board of a schooner belonging
to the Prindles of Bridgeport, and sailed for the West Indies,
which schooner was lost in a hurricane in 1806, and all on
board perished.

No. 70* Jacob Sterling's Shi2)vard.

Wo, 71. Charles Burrittf Jr.^ was a farmer.

JSfo. 72. Joel Parish was a shoemaker. He married
a sister of Maj. Aaron Hawley; had three daughters. One
died with consumption, and the others removed to New
Jersey.

Wo, 73, Stephen Utirroughs, JEsqr.f was a farmer,
ship-builder, Boston coaster, ship-master, mathematician, as-
tronomer, and surveyor — a self-made man. He was about
five feet eight inches in height, strong built, was never sick
during his long life, a cold water man, and died in 1817, aged
88 years. He was an active Whig in the Revolution, when
he raised a militia company called Householders, of which he
was chosen captain. He was often chosen representative,
and was justice of the peace for many years. He owned the
parish grist mill called the Burroughs mill, that stood where
the Pequonnock woolen mills now stand.

He was blind for several years before his decease. It is
said he invented, about the year 1798, the system of Federal
Money as now used in the United States.

His children were, Stephen, Isaac, David, and Abijah,
sons, one of which, Abijah, was lost at sea, and David died of
a fever caught in Boston, and was buried at Martha's Vine-
yard, about the year 1796; and he had three daughters —
Eunice, married a Pendleton, of Stratford ; Betsey, married

Bridgeport. 520

Capt. Joseph Sterling- Edwards, and Huldah married Joseph
Backus, Esqr., of Bridgeport, Conn.

No, 74, Shipyard and store of Stephen Burroughs,
well known for many years.

JVo. 75, Elijah Binritt was a blacksmith, buckskin
leather dresser, cooper and farmer, and died at the advanced
age of 98 years. He was six feet in height, well made, fine
presence, and was never sick until the last year of his life.
He had one son, Daniel, and three daughters. His first wife
was the daughter of John Hall. He died, Sept. 23, 1841.

It was from him that I derived much of the information
relative to the early settlers of this parish.

Mr. Burritt retained his faculties until the year 1840,
when he failed slowly until his death. I asked liim about a
year before his death, if death did not appear to be very near.
He replied, "Not any nearer than forty years ago;" that he
had " always felt that he might die any day, but when he
came to reflect that he was 97 3'ears of age, his reason and
judgment satisfied him that death must be very near.

JS'o, 76. The SurroiigJis GristmiU of Revolutionary
times. This was an old mill site, as seen on page 280 of this
book, granted first to the Sherwood family.

JS'o, 77. Josiah Smith was a miller at the Burroughs
mill. He had one son, Josiah, and one daughter. Comfort.

No. 78. JPhilixp KicJiolSf son of Theophilus, was born
in January, 1726. Beginning business life for himself about
1747 he had twenty-five years cotemporary with his father,
and they seem to have been well and advantageously im-
proved, and after his father's decease he continued probably
an active business life twenty-five years longer, dying in 1807,
in his 82d year.

While his father thought that Newpasture Point would
develope into a city and shipping place, Philip inclined to the
opinion that the west side of the harbor would first become a
city, and therefore made considerable purchases of land where
now much of the business portion of the city of Bridgeport

530 History of Stratford.

stands, which investments furnished his children with con
siderable valuable property.

His dwelling was at No. 78, on the map at the corner of
the roads, and a large portion of his business life was con-
nected with the brick store and shipyard near the house
on the shore. The shipping trade of Bridgeport was first
developed at that place on the Pequonnock river, and after-
wards came down gradually to its present localities.

Philip Nichols was a prominent communicant of the
Episcopal Church at Stratford. The parish book shows the
following record :

" At a parish meeting of Christ Church, Stratford, held
Easter Monday, April 20, 1772, it was voted that the pew
next to the pulpit be given to Captain Philip Nichols, he
building the Christening Pew."

His descendants were prominent in the community and
other parts of the counti-y, many years.

No. 79, John Peet appears to have owned this place in
1694, according to the land records, with perhaps a dwelling
on it, but considerable portion of Mr. Peet's land at this place
was purchased by Richard or Theophilus Nichols, and in the
inventory of the latter's estate it is called " Captain Peat's
lot;" twenty-three acres being valued at ^^126-10.

No, 80. Williafii JPixlee, son of William of Hadley,
Massachusetts; was born June 27, 1669; came to Stratford
when twenty-one years of age and purchased his first land of
Abraham Mitchell, three acres, at what is now the southwest-
ern corner of Old Mill Green, on the 21st day of April, 1690.
He continued to buy land in that vicinity, almost yearly, so
that in twelve years he had about fifty acres, besides pieces
in other parts of the town. One piece that he purchased,
in 1694, adjoining his own land, was bounded " on the
south with the trench that dreans the pond, and on the east
with the pond." This shows that an effort had been made at
that early day, to drain that pond.

William Pixlee married Grace, daughter of David
Mitchell, in November, 1701, when he had a good farm and
home of his own. He had two sons, Peter and David, the

Bridgeport. 5 ■51

latter died in 1742, aged 38 years. Peter occupjicd the home-
stead with his mother as long as she lived, probably, and he,
after having been a prominent and influential citizen, died in
1788, aged 85 years.

William Pixlee, the father, died in the early part of the
year 1712, the inventory of his property being taken March
17, 17 12, to which his widow made oath April 2, 1712.

Peter Pixlee, the son, had a son William who lived on the
old homestead, and was the first to receive liberty from the
town to build a mill at what is now known as the Berkshire
Mills." He was a prominent business man of the town.

No. 81, Richard Nichols, son of Isaac, Jr., grandson
of Isaac, Sen,, and great-grandson of Francis Nichols, the
first of the name at Stratford, was born at Stratford, Novem-
ber 26, 1678, and was twelve years of age when his father
died, after which his mother and her three sons removed to,
and resided at, Newtown, L. I.

Richard seems to have returned to Stratford about the
year 1700, and on June 2, 1702, married Comfort, daughter of
Theophilus Sherman.'"

Richard Nichols purchased land at Old Mill Green as
early as the spring of 17 10, and thereafter for several years
he purchased land almost yearly in the same vicinity.

A number of settlers had been living at Old Mill from
thirty to forty years when Richard Nichols came there,
namely: Samuel Sherman, Jr., Benjamin Sherman, John
Hurd, John Peet, and Samuel Blakeman's family.

His home was established on what is now the corner of Old
Mill Green and East Main street, where he resided until his
death in 1756, in his 78th year. Mr. Nichols was a prominent
man in the first ecclesiastical society in the town. In the
building of the third meeting-house, in 1743, he was one with
Captain Robert Walker and David Porter as committee, to
secure a committee from the General Court to select the site
for that house. He was engaged frequently in the settle-
ment of the estates of deceased persons.

^ See page 405 of this book.

'0 This relation is proved by a deed in which the fact is stated (see genealogy).

532 History of Stratford.

He was the leading man, apparently, in securing to the
public generally the wide street called Old Mill Green, called
at that day Pembroke street, and to him and those associated
with him in that public enterprise, the people, and especially
those of the City of Bridgeport, will ever be grateful.''

In his will, dated September 25, 1755, and proved four-
teen days after, he gave his homestead to his son Joseph, con-
taining about thirty-five acres, " with buildings, and the re-
mainder of my pasture lot nigh to John Hurd's homestead,
and all my lot of land at Daniel's Farm, southward of the
Park, about twenty-five acres, also the whole of my lot of
wood land at Ireland's Brook, about six acres."

He says further : " I give to my son Nathaniel Nichols,
one piece of land that I purchased of Jabez Beardslee, lying
northward of Totocock (so called) in the bounds of said Strat-
ford.

" Sequestered Land for Pembroke Street.

" Know all men by these presents, that we, Richard Nichols, Nathaniel
Sherman, Samuel Judson, Peter Pixlee, Ebenezer Hurd, Theophilus Nichols,
Samuel Shearman, Timothy Shearman and Joseph Nichols, all of the town of
Stratford in the Count}^ of Fairfield, for and in consideration of the love and good
will we have for the town of Stratford and the inhabitants thereof, and in order to
preserve the common good thereof, said town being the land of our nativity and
the inhabitants the first of our acquaintance here on earth, We do give, grant,
make over and confirm unto Mr. Benjamin Sherman of the said town of Stratford
and to their successors, inhabitants of said town forever, a certain tract of land
being and lying in said Stratford township in Pembroke street so called, contain-
ing in quantity about six acres of land, little more or less, and it is butted and
bounded on all points with common land as may appear by the survey bill thereof
on Stratford records, for him the said Benjamin Shearman and the rest of the said
inhabitants of the said town of Stratford : — To have and to hold the above de-
scribed tract of land to be and lye a perpetual common to and for the use of them
their successors throughout all generations to the end of time.

Affirming at the time of this grant we are well seized of the premises and have
in ourselves full power to grant the same as in manner above expressed and that
our true intent is, the same should be for a common use of all the Inhabitants of
the town of Stratford and their successors forever, never to be severed in any
manner whatsoever. To confirm all above written promises We have hereunto
set our hands and seals this 25th day of November, A. D. 1740 :

" Richard Nichols, Nathaniel Shearman, Samuel Judson, Peter Pixlee, Ebe-
nezer Hurd, Theoph" Nichols, Samuel Shearman, Timothy Shearman, Joseph
Nichols."

Bridgeport. t-i-i

Xo. 82. John Judson was the owner of this place
and perhaps residing on it in 1702, according to a deed re-
ceived by William Pixlee and given by Nathaniel Sherman,
of the land lying between it and the road on the west side of it.

Xo, 83. Theo2>7illiis Mr hols, IJsf/.^ son of Richard
Nichols, was born, March 31, 1703. He married, January
1723-4, Sarah, daughter of Lt. Ebenezer Curtiss, and settled
on the north side of the street nearly opposite his father's
residence, where he resided until his decease in 1774. This
home was held by the Nichols family until 1807, then by the
Judson family of that localit3\

His father, doubtless, gave him the land for his home-
stead when he was married, and he became a prosperous
farmer. He also engaged in ship building and mercantile
business to a considerable extent, probably, before as well as
after his father's decease in 1756, but in his father's will there
is no mention of stores or shipyard. In that will the father
gave to Theophilus, with other pieces of land, "one lot in
Newpasture Field called Gaspin's Point, about twenty-four
acres." In the inventory of the estate of Theophilus, dated
May 23, 1774, this property is mentioned, thus: "twelve
acres of land on the north end of the point lot ^93-10,"
and " three acres of land in do. with the house, store and
wharf, ^190." This indicates that within eighteen years he
had built the house, store and wharf, at what is now the
south end of Pembroke street. In the same inventory is
mentioned, "three rods of land and the brick house, and ship-
yard adjoining," and "one acre of land adjoining on the
south side." This was previously the Sterling shipyard.

This shipyard may have been the property of Theophilus
before his father's death. The inventory mentions also, "the
one-eighth part of a schooner, the President, £2^," and ;6"i50
worth of merchandise.

Besides his business life Theophilus Nichols was a public
servant and honored citizen. He was a deputy to the Gen-
eral Assembly twenty-three years; was a captain of the mili-
tia a number of years and a justice of the peace a number n!
years near the close of his life.

534 History of Stratford.

In 1745, at the time of the Great Reviv^al in the Congre-
gational Churches, he united with the Episcopal Church, and
thereafter rendered great service to that cause. Also, the
Probate records of Fairfield show that he was often selected
by private individuals and appointed by the Court to the ser-
vice of executor and overseer of wills and estates.

He died in 1774, aged 71 years.

JVo. 84z. John Ftilsortif son of Samuel, of Stratford,
was a blacksmith and carried on his trade a number of years
at this place. He died about 1815, and the house becoming
old was pulled down.

JVo. 85. Samuel SJiermau, J>\, was the first settler
at this place on Old Mill Green, as far as can be ascertained.
In 1663, Samuel Sherman, Sen., purchased James Blakeman's
half of the mill property at this place, which comprised
twenty acres of upland and several acres of meadow, while
Samuel Blakeman owned the other half, of an equal number
of acres. In 1680, Samuel Sherman, Jr., received this land by
gift from his father, but probably had resided on it a number
of years before that date, perhaps from 1663.

The highway, now called Pembroke street, began at Mr.
Sherman's house, with a gate in the common fence on the
south side of the Green. This road after having been used
seventy years or more, was re-surveyed in 1749, by Theoph-
ilus Nichols and others, as Proprietors' committee, down to
the point, and made "full three rods wide."

Stiles Lewis and his son after him, owned this place many
years. The frame of the old house still stands, but the cov-
ering has been renewed, perhaps, more than once, and the
exterior much changed. The father kept a tavern here, and
the north front room is said to have been occupied by Wash-
ington while on one of his trips through the country.

The son sold the place to Benjamin Stillman and removed
to New York.

HFo. 86, Samuel Blakeman^ probably resided here,
he having purchased of his brother James in 1662, half of the
mill property, including twenty acres of farming land be-
sides meadow ; and he died in 1668. His widow married

Bridgeport. r-it

Jacob Walker. The other half of the mill property was pur-
chased by Samuel Sherman, Sen., in 1663, as represented in

No. 85.

iVo. ^7. StcitJien Burvltl : his descendants are

a I

gone.

No. S7," The JItad Phice. This land, includincr No.
%7, was originally laid out to John Hurd, Sen., and by his will
bequeathed to his son Isaac, who seems to have died, leaving
no children, and the property descended apparently to his
brother John and his children, according to his father's will,
and it was the Hurd homestead for several generations.

Ehenezer Hurdf son of John 2d, as above, resided on
this farm probably nearly all his life, being born April 7, 1703.
He became a widely known person according to the following :
"This same year (1775), Ebenezer Hurd,'* a regular post
rider, closed a service of forty-eight years, having begun it
in 1727. Once in a fortnight, during that entire period, he
had made a journey from New York to Saybrook and back,
274 miles. In other words — for such is the computation —
during those forty eight years he had traveled over as much
space as twelve and a half times around the world, or as far
as to the moon and half-way back. Meantime, what of the
wife? Bringing up the children, managing the farm and dur-
ing one year at least, 1767, spinning not less that five hundred
3^ards of wool and flax, all raised on the place, making and
mending, especially for that indefatigable rider, who was
doubtless "hard on his clothes."

This Ebenezer Hurd married in January, 1732, Abigail
Hubbell, and they had fifteen children. Their gravestone
stands in Huntington burying place, both inscriptions being
on one stone. They are :

" Mr. Ebenezer Hurd, died May 7, 1788, aged 87 years.
Mrs. Rebecca, His Wife, died April 16, 1783, Aged —
years."

One of the sons was Ebenezer, Jr., who was also a post
rider, according to the following: "The 28lh of November,

'* Magazine of American History, by Mrs. Martha J. Lamb, 18S5, page 118.

536 History of Stratford.

died at Stratford, in Connecticut, of a short illness, Mrs.
Elizabeth Hurd, wife of Ebenezer Hurd, Jun., Post Rider of
that Place, aged 24 Years and three Months ; Her Death is
greatly lamented by all her Relations. She was the daughter
of the Rev. Christopher Newton, of Stratford/'

Andrew Hurd, eldest son of the first Ebenezer, and born
in 173 1, was also a post rider, and resided on the homestead on
Old Mill Green until his death, April 29, 1819, aged 89 years.
He is still remembered, and tradition says he used to call
out when he was to stop, " Open the gate for the King's Post."

From these last items it is probable that the sons often
rode post in place of their father.

No. 88. Site of the Old Hilly built in 1652 and 3,
and from which Old Mill Hill and Old Mill Green take their
names.

Wo. 89. Serfft. Charles Surritt was a descendant of
Stephen Burritt of Stratford, the celebrated Indian fighter in
King Philip's War, and the ancestor of the Hon. Elihu Bur-
ritt, the Learned Blacksmith.

JVo. 90, Dea. TJionias Hawley was a farmer and a
descendant of Joseph, the first of the name in Stratford ;
through Samuel the eldest son. Most of the Hawleys of this
parish are his descendants. He was chosen deacon of the
Stratfield church in 1712, and died in 1722, aged 44 years.
His son. Captain Ezra Hawley, seems to have succeeded
him on the paternal homestead, and also his grandson, Ezra
Hawley, Jr. Among the sons of the last was Wilson, a well
known and leading farmer and merchant of this place ; and
Abram, who married Alice Burton of Trumbull, settled in.
Waterbury, and had, among other children, George B., a dis-
tinguished physician and public spirited citizen of Hartford,
Connecticut.

No. 91. Gurdoii Maivley was a farmer, a descendant
of Dea. Thomas Hawley, through Captain Ezra and Ezra, Jr.

'2 Magazine of American History, 1885, page 206; taken from Rivington's
N. Y. Gazetteer, Dec. 15, 1774.

Bridgeport. 536^

George Bettjainiii Jlawlet/f M. J)., the son of Abra-
ham and Alice (Burton) Hawley, was born in Bridtrcport,
February 13, 18 12.

While he was yet an infant his parents removed to Water-
town, Conn., where he spent his boyhood on his father's farm.
He fitted for college at Goshen Academy, entered Yale
College in 1829, and was graduated in 1833. He also studied
medicine at Yale and received his diploma as an M. D. in
1836. After some preliminary work and practice he in 1840
settled down to the regular practice of his profession in Hart-
ford, which he continued successfully over forty years.

He was a man of prodigious nervous energy and phys-
ical endurance, which were brought into full play in the prac-
tice of his chosen profession, and in many other interests and
objects of a business and philanthropic nature.

The Hartford Hospital and the more recent Old People's
Home of Hartford owe their inception and success more to
Dr. Hawley than to any other man. He was interested in
the local corporations and enterprises of Hartford — to the
success of which he contributed in large degree. The woven
wire mattress he viewed in a sanitary light, and overcoming
some of the earlier defects, brought it to a high state of per-
fection and great pecuniary success. He became interested
in the mechanical setting and distributing of type, and for
twenty years devoted much time and money to its develop-
ment. He was President of the Farnham Type-Setting Ma-
chine Company, which finally adopted the Page machine, and
which, under his fostering interest and efforts, has been
brought to a surprising state of practical efficiency. He did
not live (as he hoped) to see it manufactured and in use in the
large printing establishments in the country.

Dr. Hawley died April 18, 1883. He was twice married
and left a widow and one son (by his first wife). Dr. George
Fuller Hawley, now of Chicago.

'1^ "i'

Bridgeport. 537

Ourdon married Ann, daui^htcr of Thomas, his lather's
brother. They had one son, Anson, who married Fanny,
daughter of Dea. David Sherwood, a daughter Eliza, who
married Isaac E. Beach.

No, 92, Captahk Steptten SuminerH was a farmer
and Boston coaster. He had an only son, Steijhen, and
daughters. Charity, Grizzeli, Polly and Ruth. Stephen, Jr.,
was master of the brig William, bound irom Bridgeport to
New Providence. She sailed in November, 18 10, and was
lost at sea and all on board perished.

Wo, 93, Daniel Sunmiers was a farmer.

No. 94. James Grer/ori/ was a farmer; married Phi-
lena Burritt, and removed, about 1808, to Kentucky.

Wo. 95. Dea. Lemuel Shei'woodf son of Matthew,
and born about 1687, was a farmer. He was chosen deacon
of the Stratfield church in 1722, and served until his death in
1732. His father, Matthew, is represented in the Communion
set of the first Congregational Church by a cup, the oldest
piece in the set, inscribed as given in 1713.

Dea. David Shevwood^ a descendant of Matthew,
through Samuel, John and Stephen, purchased this farm
owned by Dea. Lemuel one hundred years before, consisting
of one hundred acres, in 1830. He was chosen deaC(Mi of the
First Church, in 1831, and served about twenty-five years.
He died January 24, 1873, at the age of 94 years.

He cultivated and kept his farm nearly intact until his
decease. The population and improvements had so sur-
rounded him, that his land had become very valuable. He
died with the impression that he was very rich. The land
has been mostly sold, streets have been laid over it, and these
acres are covered with manulactures, stores and fine resi-
dences; and a teeming, busy, population, with a school house
and chapels.

No, 90, Colonel John Burr was a farmer, an early
settler and a leading man in building the first Episcopal
Church. His farm is the same that i^)lly Burr, a grand-

538 History of Stratford.

daughter, now owns. His ancestor, Colonel John Burr, of the
same name, held a meeting with the Indians under a large oak
tree near to where he built his house, which tree is now stand-
ing (1856), but has marks of old age in its branches. It was
evidently a large tree when the parish was first settled.
Thirty years ago (1826) it was green and flourishing.

He had sons, William, Ozias, who died at the age of 98
years, and Captain John Burr, who was killed by lightning in
1771.

No, 97. Watroiis Hiihhell was a farmer, and resided
at the place now occupied by the descendants of the Rev\
Philo Shelton. Some of his descendants are now living in
Bridgeport. Gershom E. Hubbell is a grandson, and the
children of David Hubbell, 3d, Elbert E. and George Hub-
bell, are great-grandchildren of the said Watrous Hubbell.

No. 98. Captain Amos Hubbell was a farmer, Bos-
ton coaster, a West India trader and an active Whig in the
Revolution, as were also all his brothers and nephews. He
was a merchant at Newfield. now Bridgeport. Soon after the
Revolution he built the wharf near the foot of Bank street,
and was the first Warden of the Borough of Bridgeport — a
man much respected.

He had one ship and two brigs built for himself, but his
commercial business was not generally successful.

About the year 1798, while France and the United States
were at war. Captain Wilson Hubbell, a son of Captain Amos,
while on a voyage homeward bound from the West Indies,
was taken by a French privateer, who took out William Cable,
his mate, and one seaman, leaving Captain Wilson Hubbell
with Samuel Cable, seaman, and Josiah Burr, the cook, on
board. The privateer then put on board of Captain Hub-
bell's sloop a prize master and two French seamen.

After the privateer had left, the weather being moderate,
Samuel Cable was put at the helm and the sloop was left by
the French Prize Master to the care of the two French sea-
men. When the Prize Master went into the cabin and lay
down, having laid his sword and pistols by him, as soon as he

Bridgeport. 539

was asleep Captain Hubbell secured his arms and locked
him in the cabin. He then secured the two French sailors
and confined them. He now secured his money, which was
in gold, in his silk handkerchief tied around his body unknown
to the Prize Master,

He then unwisely held a parley with the cunninj; French-
man, who made him such fair promises of his good behavior
that Captain Hubbell allowed him to come on deck and to
have his liberty. The Frenchman having won his confidence,
he sat down with him on the quarter-rail to smoke. When
the Frenchman dropped his cigar between Captain Hubbcll's
feet and reached down and took it up ; he continued his
French palaver, but soon dropped it again, and, stooping down
again to pick it up, he caught Captain Hubbell by his feet and
threw him overboard head foremost. The sea was calm, and
when he came up he swam after the sloop, begging for his
life, but the cruel Frenchman was deaf to his cry and let him
drown with his gold about him.

Captain Amos Hubbell had four sons, Captain Wilson
and Amos, Jr., who both died young ; Anson, and also
Charles B. Hubbell, who is now President of the Pequonnock
Bank. He had one daughter, Catharine, who married Cap-
tain Ezekiel Hubbell, formerly President of the Connecticut
Bank.

jYo. 99, Hichard Mubbellf Sen.f an early settler at
Pequonnock, was a cooper and farmer. He was supposed to
have emigrated to this country from the county of Essex in
England about the year 1670. He had one son, Richard,
and they were two of the nine male members of the first Con-
gregational Church at its organization.

Richard, a grandson, occupied the homestead, and died
at the advanced age of 93 years. He was a deacon in this
church when it was under the pastoral care of the Rev. Sam-
uel Cooke and the Rev. Robert Ross, for thirty years. He
lived with his wife, who survived him, about 63 years. He
gave the church a silver tankard for communion service,
which is still in use in this church. He had sons. Richard,
Amos, Hezekiah, Watrous and Benjamin, and one daughter,
who married Edward Burroughs. He died in 1788.

540 History of Stratford.

No, 100. JRicharcl Huhhellf Sd, was a farmer and a
merchant at Newfield, and died in the city of New York
about the year 1830, aged about 94 years. He formerly resid-
ed in the parish of Stratfield, where Joseph Banks, Esq., now
resides. He married a sister of Elijah Burritt. Their chiU
drenwere: Richard, Philo and Eli, and Pamelia, who mar-
ried Captain Whitmore; Polly, who married Asa Hurd, of
Old Mill, and Penelope, who never married, and is now living
in the city of New York at the advanced age of about 90
years.

No. 101, Caj^tain John Surr was a farmer, and the
son of Colonel John Burr, who is described under No. 74.

Captain Burr was killed by lightning in the meeting
house in 1771, at the same time my grandfather, David Sher-
man was killed, as described under No. 27.

His children were: Jesse, Eunice, who married William
Holburton, and Kat}', who married John Duncombe. Eunice
was a small, black-eyed woman, and died at the age of 88
years. She drew a pension for the services of her husband
in the Revolutionary war.

No. 102. Training Ground. In 1703, the Stratfield
Train-band was organized, and David Sherman appointed its
Ensign. The next year John Beardsley, of Stratford, was
confirmed its Captain, and James Bennett, of Fairfield, its
Lieutenant.

It has been current tradition that this plot at the corner
of the King's highway (North avenue) and the highway lead-
ing to Truck street, was donated for this purpose by the first
Richard Hubbell or one of his immediate descendants. It
seems to have been in use for training down to, and perhaps
after, the Revolution.

On a certain training day, among the spectators present
was a party ot Indians, who had been behaving insolentl}^
and one of them, a burly, athletic fellow, finally challenged
the whites to choose their best man, and he would defeat him
in a wrestling match. No one appeared ready to meet the
challenge of the Indian, whose muscular frame plainly showed
him to be a formidable antagonist, although all felt it import-

Bridgeport. 541

ant, for the moral effect, that some one should do it. After
some deliberation it was decided that Captain John Sher-
wood was the only man able to vanquish him, but doubts
were expressed whether he would be willing to engage in a
wrestling match now that he had become so active in relig-
ious matters. A deputation came to him as he was drilling
his men upon the parade ground, and after hearing their story
he briefly answered that his present duty was to drill his com-
pany, but that afterward he would attend to the matter.

When the parade was over and he had laid aside his reg-
imentals, he approached the Indian champion, who was naked
to his waist and shining with grease. This was decidedly to
the advantage of the native, since it gave his antagonist a
small chance to grasp the well oiled skin, while his oj:)ponent,
dressed in ordinary clothing, presented a fair opportunity for
the grasp of the savage.

Captain Sherwood advanced without any skirmishing,
and laying his hand on the naked shoulder of the liirliaii, found
himself able to get a good grip on the skin and flesh, tiien
exerting his great strength, at once laid his antagonist flat
upon his back, not caring to soften the violence of the fall, to
the utter astonishment of the Indian allies. The victory was
complete, confessed, and the natives withdrew quietly and
never repeated the challenge.

No. 103. The Old Stratfield Burial Ground seems
to have been laid out on the Black Rock road. The first
burials were made upon the high ground, now the central
part of the plot, which appears to have been quite fully occu-
pied. There are numerous field stones which mark the places
of interments, many of them being marked only with initial
letters, date and age, and others with initials roughly cut.
These dates run from 1688 to 171 2.

About the oldest slate stones of the stereotyped pattern,
fully inscribed, are those of Rev. Charles Chauncey. 1714, and.
Captain Matthew Sherwood, 171 5. The ground was undoubt-
edly regarded as the property of the parish, for on December
29, 1772, an addition of one-half of an acre was made on the
southeastern side, extending to the Training ground, secur-
ing a new entrance. This addition was purchased by tlie

542 History of Stratford.

Stratfield society, of Daniel Morris, for nine pounds ten shil-
lings, lawful money, and the deed was recorded in the soci-
ety's book and also on the land records of Fairfield. This
portion is very fully occupied.

These grounds have been very little used since the year
1812, and were for many years very much neglected. For
more than sixty years the society has not exercised any special
supervision over it.

About 1848, a picket fence was constructed around it
under the auspices of the late Isaac Sherman. A small fund
remained in the hands of Mr. Wilson of Fairfield, at the time
of the annexation of contiguous Fairfield territory to Bridge-
port in 1 871, and at a subsequent town meeting of Bridge-
port, Sherwood Sterling, Joseph Banks and Albert Wilson
were appointed a committee for the care of the ground. No
money was appropriated and little care bestowed. Mr. Ster-
ling and Mr. Banks died and Mr. Wilson became very infirm.
The present committee having it in charge are Rowland B.
Lacey, Henry R. Parrott and Daniel G. Fowler, who were
appointed by the town meeting.

The present improved condition of this ground, which is
very decided, is due to the persevering labors and oversight
of Dea. R. B. Lacey, during a number of years past, and if
his attention and efforts are aided by others, a few years more
it will be a comely place for burial as well as visitation.

1^0. 104, Jatnes Morris was an early settler, a farmer
and an innkeeper. None of his descendants are known to be
living.

Wo, 105. Nathan Seeley, a son of Dea. Seth Seeley,
a merchant and farmer removed to Bethel, where he died at
a good old age. His descendants are living in Bethel and
Danbury.

Nathan Seeley, when a young man, was a constable in
Stratfield parish and had a writ to serve for a debt ; and the
law was at that time, such that the person on whom a writ
was served must be touched with the paper to make the arrest
legal. He rode a large, powerful horse, and found his man
loading his cart with manure with a pitchfork. He told the

Bridgeport. 543

constable to keep away and kept the fork raised for his de-
fence. Upon this said Nathan put spurs to his horse and
made him jump on the man so that he touched him with the
writ. After having done that he had the power to call out
the militia to make the arrest com{)letc.

Nathan Seeley married Hannah, daughter ol Major Aaron
Hawley of Bridgeport.

No, 106. Dea, SetJi Seeley was a farmer and lor many
years a deacon of the parish church. His children were:
Nathan, Seth, Jr., and Samuel O. The last now occupies the
homestead. Dea. Seeley married a daughter of Samuel Odell,
Esq.; was an active Whig in the Revolution, and an old man
at the time of his death.

No. 107. Capt. Josiah Lacey, a house joiner by trade.
He was commissioned in 1777 by Governor John Hancock to
raise a company for the Continental Army. This he did in
the parish and was its captain for three years. The company
was attached to Col. Philip Bradle3''s Regiment in Gen. Hunt-
ington's Brigade. His residence before the Revolution was
on Truck street, whence he removed to the city of Bridge-
port, where he built a house — now No. 237 — on the south
side of State street. He was a justice of the peace for many
years, and died in the year 1812, in the 67th year of his age.

He had sons VVinthrop who was lost at sea, and Josiah,
who died young. His daughters were Chloe, who married
Capt. Nathaniel Silliman, and Polly, who married Mattiiew
Curtis, Esqr.

No. 108. John Lacey^ son of John and grandson of
Edward and Sarah Lacey, was baptized by Rev. Charles
Chauncey, Oct. 22, 17 10. He married Mary, daughter of
Daniel Hubbell, and lived upon what is understood to have
been the original homestead of the family, on the corner of
Truck street and one of the cross roads leading to Toilsome
Hill. The first settler is said to have come from Nottingham,
England.

The family first appears upon the records of the Church
of Christ in Fairfield. January 13, 1694, when Sarah, wife of
Edward Lacey, was admitted as a member. June 20, 1694,

544 History of Stratford.

their six children were baptized — viz: Edward, John, Henry,
Sarah, Mary, Elizabeth. This John of the second generation
died in 1754. His will was dated May 30, 1754, and mentions
the following children : John, Edward, David, Ephraim, Eu-
nice, Sarah.

John, of the 3d generation, whose name heads this arti-
cle, appears on the Stratfield Parish records in 1759 and 1760,
as one of the Society's Committee and is there called John
Lacey, Jr. He died Feb. 10, 1793, in his 84th year. His wife
Mary survived him seventeen years, and died April i, 1810,
aged 91 years. She was an excellent woman and is spoken of
as " a mother in Israel."

No, 109, Capt, Daniel Lacey, son of John, No. 108,
was captain over all the companies of Guards, stationed dur-
ing the Revolution, from Division street to Saugatuck river.
He succeeded Capt. Nash, who first commanded the same.

His children were John, Daniel, who settled out West,
Michael, Squire, and Sarah, who married Seeley Sherwood.
His mother was the widow Mary Lacey, who resided in the
old hrst homestead of the first settler in the parish by the
name of Lacey.

John and Michael settled at what was known as Lacey's
mill, but more recently at Plattville on the Easton Turnpike,
and their remains, with those of their brother Squire Lacey,
rest in the old Stratfield burial-ground.

Daniel went West. The daughter Sarah, who married
Seeley Sherwood, lived on the old road a little north of the
Stratfield Baptist meeting-house.

Wo, 110. Joseph Urotliwell was a shoemaker from
Scotland. He came to Stratfield about 1750 and had his resi-
dence at Truck street on the west side of the highway oppo-
site No. 105 on the map, and there reared his family of lour
sons and three daughters. He was a strong Presbyterian and
Revolutionary Whig. He married Hannah Fayerweather, a
sister of Benjamin. Their sons were Benjainin, Joseph Fayer-
weather, William and Thomas, who all lived to old age; and
daughters, Betty who married John Hubbell, whose residence
was on Division street, Grizel and Abigail.

Bridgeport. ;.J5

Joseph F. Brothwell married a daughter c^l iknjamin
Lacey, and removed to Woodbury, Conn., about the year
1798.

Joseph Brothwell was an active member ot the parish
when Mr. Ross was first settled, and to show the character o
the man I will relate the following anecdote

He was chosen Lieutenant of a company (j1 uiilitia called
the Householders, and was a terror to the Tories. On a cer-
tain occasion when the heroes oi tiie Revolution were gath-
ered at Nichols' tavern, he pulled out his sword from its
sheath and threw it down on the tabic — "There, there," said
he, " I have unsheathed my sword and it shall not be sheathed
again until this contest is ended."

He became blind several years before his death.

lfo» 111.^* Edward JLacey, a farmer, son of John and
grandson of Edward, the first settler of the name Lacey, in
Fairfield (Stratfield), appears upon the Stratfield Parish rec-
ords, Dec. 30, 1755, when Stephen Fairchild, Richard Hall,
and Edward Lacey, Jr., were chosen School Committee. In
1757, he, with Dea. William Bennett and others, joined the
" North Company " in the settlement of North Fairfield, now
the town of Easton, which company appears to have been
under the jurisdiction of the Stratfield Parish for some years.

He purchased lands of Jackson, on the west side of

the highway (now Easton turnpike) at a point about eight
miles from Bridgeport, it being the same that the late Anson
Bennett owned for many years. In 1761 Edward Lacey was
chosen by Stratfield Parish, collector of ministerial, society
and school rates within the limits of the North Company, and
receipts for money paid by him to Rev. Robert Ross, and
also from Rev. Joseph Lamson, of the Church of England,
appears on the Parish records. It is said that the early relig-
ious meetings of the place were held at his house.

He was first married to Hannah Summers, by whom he
had nine children. Eleven months after the birth of the two
youngest (twins), October, 1755, she died and was buried at
Stratfield. Subsequently he married Deborah Odell and had

'•* This may not be the exact location, but is near it.

546 History of Stratford.

five children. Rowland B. Lacey is a descendant through
Zachariah (one of the twins above mentioned), and his wife
Betty Rowland, and his son Jesse and Edna (Munson) Lacey.
Edward Lacey died in North Fairfield (Easton), June 18, 1772,
in his 6ist year, and a fine old slate stone marks his grave in
the cemetery near the Baptist Church, where also lie the re-
mains of Zachariah and Jesse Lacey, above named.

His descendants are numerous and widely scattered
through the country, but very few of the name remain in
Connecticut.

JVo. 112, Henjaniin Zicicey, a tanner and currier, and
shoemaker, having his shop and vats westerly from the house,
convenient to the stream of water. Among his apprentices
were Joseph Fayerweather Broth well, Zachariah Lacey, and
his own son David Lacey. Zachariah Lacey and J. F. Broth-
well were of the same age and their terms of apprenticeship
expired at the commencement of the Revolution. They to-
gether enlisted in a company commanded by Capt. Josiah
Lace}^ and marched to New York. On the expiration of their
time they re-enlisted and served nearly four years, when they
united in hiring a man by the name of Jackson to serve dur-
ing the war, by which they were exempted.

Benjamin Lacey married Margaret Hall. In 1767, and
for many years thereafter, he was collector of ministerial
rates, in Stratfield Parish, for the Church of England. He
died in 1784, aged 45 years.

Joseph F. Brothwell married Molly (or Mary), daughter
of Benjamin Lacey and removed to Woodbury.

David, son of Benjamin Lacey succeeded his father at
the homestead and was known as David Lacey, the shoe-
maker. His children were David, Eleazer, Benjamin, Ruth,
and Ellen. David was a large owner in, and the well known
manager of the Washington bridge over the Housatonic
river for many years. Eleazer Lacy was early engaged in
the lumber business in Bridgeport; was next the cashier of
the Middlesex County Bank, succeeding Charles Foote, who
was called to the Connecticut Bank in 1834. At a later pe-
riod he was the first cashier of the (Bridgeport) City Bank
at its organization. Benjamin Lacey resided in Southport.

Brziigef^ort. 5^-

3^0. 113. lienjamin litot/nrHI^ son of Joseph (No
no), married Anna Hcach. of Rock II(Jiise district, in N(jrth
Fairfield, now Easton. He resided first at No. 110, but after
the death of his father he built a new house on this site, and
reared a family of four sons and four daughters. Roswell,
the third son, was the best known and most thorouj^hly iden-
tified with this community. He was considerable of a farmer
as well as his father, much interested in aj^riculture, and was
often engaged as manager at the county and local fairs. His
residence was on the site designated as No. 115. He died in
1883, at the advanced age of 81 years. His wife was Julia
Ann Hall, who survives him at the age of 83 years. Their
onl}' son, Benjamin Beach Broth well, succeeds his father on
the same premises.

No. 114. Error on the map.

Ko. 115. Amos Merrlm<ni was a cooper by trade.
He came from Cheshire, Conn., about 1795. One of the
early Baptist ministers was Elder Royce, who came here from
Cheshire, and it is understood that his accjuaintance with and
interest in Elder Royce induced Mr. iSIerriman to remove to
Stratfield. He built his house and cooper shop on this spot
and resided here until about 1815, when he removed to Ken-
tucky and left no representatives here.

Roswell Broth well afterwards became the owner and
made his residence here. He built the house and made the
fine improvements which at present appear, some years be-
fore his death.

No. 110. Lemut'l BamfS was by trade a blacksmith.
His residence was in Truck street, a little way south of the
first Baptist meeting-house. His children were born there.

Mr. Bangs was a poor man, but a zealous Whig in the
Revolution. Two of his sons, the Rev. Nathan Bangs. D.D.,
of New York City, and Elder Heman Bangs, were school-
mates with Capt. Daniel Sterling, at the district school. The
family left this part of the country about the year 1790. The
two sons were very large men and were in the ministry of the
M. E. Church many years.

548 History of Stratford.

Lemuel Bangs met in the time of the Revolution with
other Whigs at Nichols' tavern, parson Ross, also a strong
Whig, being of the number. During the discussions Lemuel
Bangs said, he would be willing to die and suffer eternal pun-
ishment if he could be the means of making America free.
Mr. Ross replied, " it is a good thing to be zealous but not to
be too zealous. Where is my hat, I must be going."

JVo. 117. The Stratfleld Ba2>tist Church was first
gathered in October, 1751. It was a result, in part, of the
" Great Awakening," or " New Light" movement in 1740 and
41. The Rev. Samuel Cooke of the Stratfield parish was in
favor of Whitefield and his preaching, but there was a consid-
erable sentiment opposed to Mr. Cooke's views, and some of
the opposition went to the Episcopal Church.

Upon the death of Mr. Cooke in 1747, a successor in the
pastorate — Rev. Lyman Hall — was secured, who was opposed
to New Light methods, and this increased the feeling of dis-
satisfaction towards the old parish and church.

The Separatist feeling, finally^, took form under the
leadership of Capt. John Sherwood and the preaching of the
Rev. Joshua Moss (or Morse) in 175 1.

Mr. Moss was a convert under the preaching of White-
field, in Rhode Island, and had united with the Baptist
Church, entertaining its sentiments in regard to baptism,
close communion and preparation for the ministry, namely,
that a liberal education was unnecessary ; the requisites
being, the divine call, hallowed fire and spiritual enlighten-
ment.

Mr. Moss had preached in the place repeatedly and on
the second Lord's day in October, 175 1, being assembled at
the house of John Sherwood, he preached and after the ser-
mon the following persons, Zechariah Mead, Nathaniel
Seeley, Elihu Mash (Marsh), John Sherwood, Ebenezer
Sanford and Samuel Beardsley, six men with a number of
women, after the covenant services, were baptized by Elder
Moss, and the Lord's Supper was administered. These
services, as then judged, constituted the organization of the
Church.

Bridgeport. 5^^

From this organization for six years there are found no
records of this church. Some difficulty followed, between
the members of this Baptist Church and the Old Stratfield
Society about the collection of ministerial rates. The former
thought that, under the law they should be exemi)t. the latter
claimed of them rates the same as of others, since they were
not an organized society, as the law required in order to be
exempt, and tradition says that Captain Sherwood sufTered
his rate to be collected under distraint on his personal prop-
erty, and in 1755, brought a suit in the Superior Court to
recover sums which had been so collected. The result is
not known, except that at the annual meeting of the Stratfield
Society, December 29, 1757, shortly after the ordination of
Capt. Sherwood as the first resident pastor of this Church,
the ministerial rates of John Sherwood, Nathaniel Seeley,
Zachariah Mead and Ebenezer Sanford were remitted for the
year 1756 and 1757, and that they should be exempt from
the rates of the following year.

Captain John Sherwood was ordained as an elder, in the
Baptist Church, on the third Tuesday in December, 1757, ^3'
the Elders and Messengers of the Churches in New London
and Groton, assembled with the Baptist Church in Stratfield,
and he became the settled pastor of this church.

At the end of the first ten years, sixteen persons had been
received into membership, and these had their residences in
Ridgefield, Redding, Wilton and Newtown.

Elder Sherwood died in 1779, aged 75 years. He was a
man of strong convictions, and was faithful to them while a
member of the old Stratfield Church, as well as after he be-
came a Baptist. He labored devotedly and with much
energ}^ and hence successfully, not only in Stratfield but
extensively in Fairfield county. He had great physical pow-
ers, as appears in his encounter with the Indian, as related in
No. 102.

It is no disparagement to either to say that his grit re-
appeared remarkably in his well known grandson, Dea.
David Sherwood, who died in 1873 at the great age of 94
years.

550 History of Stratford.

Wo. 118, The Parsonage of the Stratfield Baptist
Society of the " olden time " was located here. It was the
residence of Elder Seth Higby, Elder Royce, and others.

The house was long since taken down and the property
now belongs to the estate of the late Roswell Brothwell.

The location of the present Parsonage is designated on
the map as No. ii6, the place formerly occupied by Lemuel
Bangs. It was the toll house of the Easton turnpike for
many years from about 1835.

No. 116, Cax>t, John Sherwood, a prominent farmer
in the Stratfield Society, became a Baptist Elder, and pastor
of the Stratfield Baptist Church in 1757, which he served
faithfully about ten years. He died in 1779, at the age of 75
years. See No. 102 and 117.

No. 120. JPatrick Keeler, from the north of Ireland,
came to this parish during the period of the Revolution. He
married first, Anne, daughter of Onessimus Hubbell, and 2d,
Sarah Holburton. His daughter, Polly, married Nathan
Seeley Meeker, son of David Meeker, who lived at the place
designated on the map as No. 105. The 2d daughter, Anne,
married Joseph Brothwell, son of Benjamin, and after the
death of Patrick Keeler they continued to reside on the place.
The children of Joseph and Anne (Keeler) Brothwell are
Charles H. (of Bridgeport) and John (of Greenfield, Connec-
ticut), and Emily, who married Charles Plumb. Charles H.
is the well known agent of Hon. P. T. Barnum, and now a
prominent member of the Board of Public Works of the City
of Bridgeport. Patrick Keeler was strongly attached to Par-
son Shelton and the Protestant Episcopal Church. He was
specially helpful to Mr. Shelton in many ways, but particu-
larly enjoyed in his younger years the Christmas illumination
of the old church, insisting on a candle at every pane of glass
in the prominent windows.

120^.'" John IlopJeins came to Stratfield from the
north of Ireland in company with Patrick Keeler, who was
about three years his senior.

" Not located on the map.

Bridgeport. 5 5 1

Hopkins was a stroiii^ Presbyterian, and, though diflcr-
ing in religious sentiment from his neighbor Kcelcr, thcv ever
remained fast friends. Hopkins located on the X'allcy road,
so called, a few rods from where it leaves the upper cross-
road leading from Truck Street to Toilsome Hill school
house. He married Mehitabel Smith. Their children were
James, John, Mary Ann, and Catharine. James married, lirst,
Sarah Wilson; and second, Mary Sherwood. He lived on
the old homestead, and alter his second marriage built a new
house. He left no children.

John was a shoemaker and dealer in Bridgeport. He
married Abigail Booth, dau. of James Booth of Stralf(jrd.
His children are Lewis Miles, and Alfred, both well known
merchants and manufacturers of stoves, household goods and
plumbing. Mary Ann married Nathaniel Thorp of Fairfield.
She lived many years a widow at what is now No. 276
Lafayette street. A son Levi survives her.

JVo. 121, OuessiiUiis HnhheJl, son of Daniel, was bap-
tized November 16, 1755, was a farmer, and died September
14, 1824.

Wo, 122, Tliaddens IlahbeU, a brother of Onessimus,
was a farmer. They descended from the first Richard,
through Samuel; born 1657; Daniel born 1691 ; Daniel born
1724. Thaddeus had children Mary, who married Eli B.
Nichols, Esther, who married John Parrott, Joseph and
Rebecca.

Xo. 122'*,'" JededUih Wells, His house was on the
south side of the highway at Fresh Pond near the district
school house — No. 68. He was son of Capt. Jedediah Wells,
who was lost at sea about 1758, and grandson of Samuel
Wells, located at No. 2 on the map — a large land owner in
the south part of the settlement. This family are in direct
line from Governor Thomas Wells. See genealogy. The
only descendants of Jedediah are from his daughter Lucy,
who married Abraham Parrott. Frederick Wells Parrott
and Henry R. Parrott are (in 1885) owners of the ancestral
property on North avenue and North Washington avenue.

^* Not located on the map.

552 History of Stratford.

iVo. 123, Golden Hill Indians. The spot of ground
containing eighty acres where the Golden Hill tribe of Indians
lived at the time the parish began to be settled, contained at
least one hundred wigwams, and was their cornfield. It was
situated in the city of Bridgeport on the old Golden Hill
road, now called Washington avenue. Golden Hill was so
called by the English from the rocks that contained a yellow
isinglass resembling gold. But it is not all gold that shines.

No, 123 '^. An Indian Wiyivam, occupied about 1798
by an Indian called Tom Sherman. This Indian house stood
on, or near, the site of the dwelling house of the late Capt.
Daniel Sterling, near a living spring called the Indian spring.
It appears that there were about eight acres of land around
it, which was the last of the old Indian field, on which the
Golden Hill Indians inhabited.

No, 124, Caj)t, Daniel Sterling , a native of Strat-
field, built his house on the east side of Main street, on the
Indian lot, so called, in the year 1804, where he resided for
many years until his death. He was for a long time a suc-
cessful ship-master, from New York in the Liverpool trade.

Wo. 125. Ebenezej' Allen, son of Nehemiah, was a
shoemaker. His children were Samuel, James, Justus and
Ruth, who married William Parrott, and Edri, who married
Nicholas Burr.

Wo, 126, Dea, Elijah Haivley was a house carpen-
ter. He was a deacon of the First Congregational Church
until 1790, and died in the State of Ohio in 1825, aged 84
years. He had one son, named Jesse, who was born in the
old red house, standing on Main street nearly opposite Gold
street. Jesse Hawley removed to the State of New York in
early life, where he died aged about 70 years. It is said that
he was the projector of the Erie Canal, which project he com-
municated to Governor Clinton, which resulted in the build-
ing of that great work. Major Aaron Hawley, a brother of
Dea. Elijah, became the owner of the place before 1787, and
occupied it until his death in 1803. His son, Capt. Samuel,
succeeded him. He and his descendants held and occupied it
until about 1840.

Bridgeport. 553

JSfo, 127. Samuel Porter was a farmer aiul weaver.
He owned the farm called Porter's Point in the City of
Bridgeport, Gold street crossing the same. He married
Abiah Hiibbell, who had a brother named Abel Hubbell, who
lived to the extreme old age of over 103 years. 1 saw the old
man a short time before he died. He was then in good
health, but deaf and blind. He could recite hymns and por-
tions of the Bible which he had learned in his youth. No
other man in this parish has ever attained the age of 100
years. Mr. Elijah Burritt and Ozias Burr both reached 98
years ; and there was a woman buried in the old parish ground
by the name of Molly Jackson, who died at the age of loi
years.

Samuel Porter had a son, Samuel, Jr., who married my
sister Ellen Sherman. He was a farmer and weaver; had no
children. Samuel, Sen., had a daughter, named Mary, who
married Lewis Sturges. They had two sons, Isaac and
Joseph P. Sturges. The Rev. Thomas B. Sturges of Green-
field is an only child of Joseph P. Sturges.

This Porter property is treated at considerable length on
page 489 and following, the reason being that quite a number
of historical events cluster around and upon it.

N^o, 128. Caj^t. James Hayt owned this property.
He came here from Norwalk. Samuel Peet purchased the
property of him and erected on it a frame dwelling, which
has given place to the present brick block of Mr. L. F.
Curtis.

No. 129. Doct. Daniel Clifford was the first resi-
dent physician in this parish.

No. 130. Dea. Bljiah Hawley erected a'dwelling at
this place and sold it about 1796 to Silas Sherman, who was a
merchant, and married Abigail, daughter of Thomas Haw-
ley. The late Ira Sherman was their son. His daughter,
Caroline, married Nicholas Northrop.

No. 130**:' CajJt. David Hairlet/, son of James,

owned this, the first brick house built within the present city

'^ Not located on the map.

554 History of Stratford.

limits. It was located on the corner of Water and Gilbert
streets.

Capt. Hawley was with Arnold in the battle of the flotillas
on Lake Champlain, in the Revolution, and he also led the
expedition that captured Judge Thomas Jones, of Hempstead,
L. I., who was afterwards exchanged for Gen. G. S. Silli-
man, an American officer. Capt. Hawley died in 1807, and
his brick house was afterwards occupied as a saddle factory
by Seth B. Jones, and was the arena of great theological dis-
cussions among the workmen, specially Joshua Lord, William
Wright, Edwin B. Gregory and Alexander S. Gordon.

No, 131, Thnothy Shaylor resided at this place with
his brother. Isaac Sherman wrote of them, " I believe they
were seafaring men."

Wo. 13 f, Capt. Ahijah Hawley , was the son of

Thomas, No. 133. He was a prominent merchant, and in
early life sailed in different vessels in the Boston coasting
trade. Among his descendants in 1885 are Munson Hawley,
President of the Bridgeport National Bank; Marcus C. Haw-
ley, formerly of the hardware firm of Thomas Hawley and
Company, now engaged extensively in the same business in
California ; Dea. Edward Sterling, and others.

No. 132. NeJiemiah Allen was a shoemaker and
farmer. He came from Stratford before the Revolution and
settled near Baker's Pond. His sons were : Nehemiah, Capt.
James, who built the Stanley House, and Ebenezer. He had
one daughter, Hannah, who married Capt. Charles Wing.

JVo. 133. Thomas Hatvleij^ son of Capt. Ezra, No.
90, was a farmer. His son Zalmon is said to have trans-
planted the large elm tree on the premises of J. De Ver War-
ner, carrying it on his shoulder from the adjacent forest.

JVo. 134. Mather's Point, purchased from Mrs. Lucy
Barlow, daughter of Capt. Samuel Sherwood by Capt. Titus
C. Mather from Long Island, about 1829, for a shipyard. It
was previously known as Sherwood's Point and earlier as
New Pasture Point.

Bridgeport. ccc

Ifo. WJj. Hon. Picrfrjtont ICfhrarfts, who died in
Bridgeport, April 14, 1826, aged 76 years. Sec list of Bridge-
port lawyers.

Wo, 136. Ejyhraiiti Wilmx was a boat buiklcr and
came from Stratford. It is said he possessed, for his day, an
unsually extensive library, of which he made good use. He,
Elijah Burritt, and Philip Nichols, were the literary trio of
their period, or what would have been called then, " well
read men." Mr. Wilcox had no children. Ira Curtis, from
Stratford, was his apprentice and successor, and inherited
his property and library, most of it being now in the jjos-
session of his son Lewis Curtis.

No. 137. The Old Yellow 31*11, which was destroyed
by fire in 1884. See page 407.

No. 138. An old dwelliuf/f removed on the opening
or extension of East Main street in 1800.

No. 139. HoUins; occupation unknown.

No. 140. Ccijtt. NatJiau SherniaUf a farmer, resided
at this place, and died September 10, 1827. He was the an-
cestor of Messrs. O. W. and William Sherman, and of the
Rev. H. B. Sherman of Torrington, Conn.

No, 111. Jdmes Walker was the owner of this home-
stead many years, from about 1739, but it is now in the pos-
session of Mr. James W. Beardsley by inheritance through
his mother, the daughter of James Walker.

The land of this homestead, most of it, was first laid out
to Robert Walker, the father of James, described in part
thus: "February 25, 1714-15. Then laid out one tract of
land to Robert VValker on the east side of Fequonnock River,
below the falls, 230 rods from north to south, 36 rods wide at
the north end and 16 rods at the south end, and 66 wide in
the middle, bounded west with the Pequonnock river, east with
the highway, it being 61 acres, and 15 acres on the east side
of the highway."

This is the territory now denominated the Beardsley
Park, it having been given to the city of Bridgeport lor a
park by Mr. James W. Beardsley.

55^ History of Stratford.

James Walker built the house, now standing, in 1739, and
resided in it thereafter until his decease. The house is well
preserved after the service of one hundred and forty-six
years.

James Walker was the brother of the Hon, Robert
Walker of Stratford, one of the most distinguished men that
Stratford ever raised. James was Justice of the Peace in
Stratford many years, and a prominent man in the society of
North Stratford. Many quaint, curious and interesting
papers and documents are still preserved which were col-
lected by him in his long services as Justice of the Peace.

JVo. 142, Ebeu Booth was a farmer at this place quite
a number of years since 1800. His family consisted of a wife
and eight daughters. His daughter Eliza married Eli Bald-
win and removed to Auburn, N. Y.; his daughter Nancy mar-
ried Col. Lyman Baldwin, removed to Auburn and thence to
Detroit, Michigan, where he was high sheriff, and afterwards
mayor of the city ; and his daughter Alice married Peter
Hayden, a very wealthy hardware merchant of Cincinnati,
O., and more recently a resident of New York city. The
other daughters went west with their sisters.

St rat field Burying-plixce.

SI?

The Strat field {or Peqnonnoek) Ihirviug Place

In memory of
Ehenezer Allen, who died May 6,
1830, in his 77 year.

Hannah. Allen, wife of Ebenezer

Allen, died Jan. iS, 1828, aged 68

years, 4 months.

In memory of
JEbenezer Allen, who died July 6.

1797, aged II years.
Also
Joseph, Edri, Joseph B., Justus, [oseph

& Mary; Children of Ebenezer &

Hannah Allen.
tftisfus Allen, Died Aug. 2, 1S63, ^E.

63.
Adaline, Died July 12, 1857, /£,. 18.
3Iarj/ €., Died Aug. 4, 1863, JE. 18.

Daughters of Justus & Julia Allen.

In memory of

3Ir. Neheiniah Allen, who died

March 7''', 1810, in the 81"' year of

his age.

In memory of
Mi'S. Edra Allen, wife of Mr. Ne-

hemiah Allen, who died Feb>. 20"',

i8og, in the 74 year of her age.
In Memory of
Xehemiah Allen, who died Sept.

25, 1820, in his 40 year.

Here another Guest we bring.
Seraphs of celestial wing,
To our fun'ral altar come
Waft a Friend & Brother home.

In memory of
Samuel IB. Allen, who died July 18,

1818, in the 36 year of his age.
In memory of
Theodore Allen, who died April 5"',

1810, aged 2 months & 15 days.
Waldomir SacJcus, son of Joseph

Backus, Esqr. and Mrs. Huldah, his

wife, born Jan. 7, 1803, died Dec. 14,

1809.

In memory of an
Infant daughter of Joseph & Huldah

Backus, who died Feb. 17, 1799.
Laura, wife of Joseph Banks, &

daughter of Philemon Sherwood,

died Nov. 17, 1S26, aged 28 years

«& 7 months.

In memory of
Mary Ann, daughter of Elbcn \'
Polly Banks, who died Aug. 8, 1633,
JE. 16 yrs. & 3 mo.

In memory of
Jane, who died Jan. 26, 1816, yE. 10
mo. & 10 d.

Also of
Stephen JFenrj/, who died June 30,

I82S, Ai. 7 ITIO.

Son and daughter of John iS: Sarah

Bartlet.

Here lies the body of an
Infant son of James & Huldah Beach,

who died Dec"^ 19"', 1806, twelve

hours old.

In memory of
EnS"^ Abijah Beard si ee, who de-
parted this Life Nov"^ 2'', 17S9, in the
40"" Year of his Age.

In memory of

Drusilla, widow of .Abijah Beardsley,

who died April i, 1839, '" ''cr 87 year.

In memory of

Sarah Jieardslei/, who died Aug.

I, 1850, in her 64 year.

Blessed are the dead
who die in the Lord.

Our Parents
Anson Beardslei/, Died Mav 19,
1866, ^. 83.

JS'ancy Treadwcll, his wife, died
June 12, 1S66, ^-E. 77.

Only resting till the morning.

Thaddetfs Jienedict, Esqr., de-
parted this life Oct" 6"', 1799, in the
51*' year of his age.

Thaddeus Jienedict, youngest son
of Thaddeus iS: Deborah Benedict,
who died 27"' March, iSoo. /Et. 3
years, 4 months & 4 days.

Gentle Reader what is this life ?
Tis nothing. Tis everything.

Here lies the Body of
Mrs. Hannah, the wife of .Mr. Wil-
liam Bermiit, who died Nov' y" 28,
1743, in y" 3:" year of her age.
In memory of
Iltddah liennett, who died Oct. 2,
1839, aged 56 yrs.

" See page 541 of this book.

55S

History of Stratford.

Here lyes y'' Body of
Sarah Sennit, Wife to Mr. James

Bennit, DeC^ Nov' y" aS"', 1726, in y'^

73** year of her age.
Edwards BlacJanan, died Oct. 15,

1845, aged 58.
Julia, wife of Edwards Blackman,

Died Aug. 5, 1839, JE. 45.
Israel JBlaheman, died June 5,

1853, ^- 72.

In memorj' of

Polly, Wife of Israel Blakeman, who

aied Apr. 28, 1S48, In her 68"^ year.

Calm on the bosom of thy God,

Sweet spirit rest thee now !
E'en while with us thy foot steps trod

His seal was on thy brow.

Here lyeth the Body of
James JBlakenian, who departed
this life in the 23 3'ear of His Age,
October 29, 1709.

In memory of
Susan, Daughter of Israel & Polly
Blakeman, who died July 27, 1805,
JE. 2 yrs. & 9 mos.

In Memory of
Ebenezer Booth, who died Dec. 29,
1820, aged 47.

In memory of
(Joniphy , widow of Ebenezer Booth,
who died March 11, 1843, aged 66 yrs.

In memory of
Elizabeth Sooth, who died Dec. 29,
1820, aged 47.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
Seacon Joseph Sooth, Who de-
parted this Life May the 2"'^ 1763, in
the 75* year of his age.

Here lyes the Body of
Mrs. Sarah Sooth, who died April

— , AD. 1784, in the 76 Year of her

age.
Anna, Daughter of Mr. Joseph &

Betsey Booth, died March 26, 1793

or 5, Aged 7 days.

In memory of
MicJiard Walker Sooth, son of

Mr. Samuel &: Mrs. Jerusha Booth,
who died Dec"' 10"', 1789, Aged 3
years, 9 months & 14 Days.
Marij Ann, Daughter of Francis &
Ruth Botsford, died Apl. 20"', 180G,
aged 9 weeks.

Ann, wife of Hezekiah Bradley, died
. Dec. 26, 1S22.

Erected to the memor)' of
3Ir. Samuel Srinsmade, who

was born March 19"', 1750, and died
March 20*'^, 1808, aged 58 years and
I day.

But now is Christ risen from the dead and be-
come the first fruits of them that slept.

In memory of
Sarah 31., Daughter of Henry and
Sarah Bristol, who died June 16,
1832, ^-E. I year & 4 mo.
Sleep, sweet babe, and take thy rest :
God called thee home, he thought it best.

Emery Srothtvell, Died Sept. 4,
1S59, aged 56 years.

Bath Polina, wife of Emery Broth-
well, Died March 14, 1848, in the 49"^
3ear of her age.

SaraJi Ann, Daughter of Emery
Brothwell, Died Mar. 22, 1867, M. 36
yrs.

Lucy 31., Daughter of Emery & Po-
lina Brothwell, died July 30, 1832, JE.
4 yrs. & 4 mo.
This stone is erected in memory of

Betsey Brothwell, Daughter of
Thomas & Hannah Brothwell, who
died Sept. 13, 1810, in the 16"" year of
her age.

In memory of

Hannah Brothwell, who died Nov.

I, 1829, aged 63 years & 5 months.
Joseph Br oth'irell died ] an. 27, 181 1,

in the 84 year of his age.
Hannah, his Relict, died June 4,
1815, in the 85 year of her age.
Why do we mourn departing friends

Or shake at death's alarms!
'Tis but the voice that Jesus sends
To call them to his arms.

In memorj' of
3Iary Srothuell, wife of Aldan
Brothwell, who died May 28, 1834,
aged 27 years & 8 mo.

In Memory of
3Iary Josephine, daughter of Alden

& Mary Brothwell, who died Oct. 30,

1835, JE. I yr. iS: 6 mo.
Harriet S., Daughter of Alden &

Mary Brothwell. Died Dec. 7, 1853,

Aged 21.

In memory of
Tltomas Srothtvell , who died April

14, 1842, in the 76"" year of his age.

In memory of
William Brothwell, who died April
13, 182S, aged 72 years.

St rat field Ihirying-placc.

5 59

Wr, Williatn JlrothwcU, son of

Thomas iS: Hannah Brothwell, Died
March 7, 1818, in the 26 year of Ills
ase.
Praise on tombs are titles vainly spent,
A man's good name is his best monument.

In memory of
Ebenezei' lirowii, who died June
14, 1S63. yE. 82 yrs.

In memory of
Scivafl'i, wife of Ebenezer Hrown, who
died Sept. 28, 1853, ^E. 75.

In memory of
Mr. Aaron Burr, who died Aug'*
23.'\ 1814. in the 57"" year of his age.
Here lyes y'' Body of
Amos Surr, son of Mr. John & Mrs.
Katharine Burr, Died September 27"'.
1743, in y*' 3"^ year of his age.
Here lyes the Body of
Mrs. Charity Burr, Wife to Wil-
liam Burr, Esqr., Who Departed this
life, October y« 2^, 1769, in y° 48*''
year of Her Age.

In memory of
3I'rs. Hepzlhah Burr, Relict of
Mr. Justus Burr, who died Oct" 24"^,
iSio, aged 78 years.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
Colo. John Burr, Who Departed
this Life June 13"', Anno Doinni,
1750, in y*= 79"^ Year of His Age.
Here lyes Buried y"* Body of
Mrs. Deborah Burr, Wife of
Major John Burr, Who dec"* Decemb''
4"^, 1726, in y« 52'' year of Her Age.
Here lyes Buried y" Body of
Deborah Burr, Daughter of Major
John & Mrs. Deborah Burr, Who
Dec' November y*^ 28"', 1726, in y"
22'^ Year of Her Age.

Here Ives Buiied the Body of
Capt. John Burr, Who Departed
this Life Sep'^ 13. O. S. A. D.
1752, in v" 55"^ Year of His Age.
Here lyes Buried the Body of
Mrs. Catharine Burr, Widow of
Capt. John Burr, Who Departed this
Life Sept. y* 25"', A. D. 1753, in y»
53'' year of Her Age.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
John Bxirr, Esq., Who departed
this Life July 28'", 1771. in y« 44""
year of his Age.*

* He was killed by lightning, while attending
worship in the meeting-house.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
Mr. Justus liurr. Who died sud-
denly July the 13''', \-](>(j. In ye 32'
Year of His Age.

In memory of
Ozias Burr, who died Sept. 5, 1836,
in the 98 year of his age.

In memory of
Sarah, Wife of O/ias Burr, who died
Sept. 2, 1820, in her 82 year.

In memory of
Char it ji, dau'"^ of Ozins iV Sarah Burr
who died Aug. 19, 1794, in her 27
jear.

In memory of
Bebecca, dau"^ of Ozias iV Sarah Burr
who died Aug. 23, 1794, in lu-r 29
year.

In memory of
Philo, Son of Ozias & Sarah Hurr,
who died Sept. 12, 1794, in his 13
year.

To the Memory of
3Irs, Susftnna Burr, Wife of Capt.
Gershom Burr, and daughter of Mr.
Daniel and Mrs. Margaret Young,
who departed this life Feb. 12"', 1797,
in the 24"' year o( her age.
Also of
Susaii na Burr, Jun^', only Daugh-
ter of Capt. Gershom and Mrs. Su-
sanna Burr, who died Feb' 4''', 1797,
aged 4 years.
They are not dead but gone before.
Why do we mourn departed friends?
Or shake at death's alarms,
'Tis but the voice that Jesus sends
To call them to his arms.

William Burr, Son of Mr. William
& Mrs. Marv Hurr, Died June 20'*'.
A. D. 1739, in '''S 13''' month.
Here lyes Buried y' Body of

3Irs. Man/ Burr, Wife of William
Burr, M.A., Who died March ig"".
Anno jDomni, 174J, in y" 33'' year of
Her Age.

Here Ives Buried the Body of

William Jiurr, Esq., Who depart-
ed this Life May the 5"', 1769 •" }"
58 year of His Age.

In memory of

3Ir. Charles Burritt. Who died
NoV^ 12"', 1801, in the 80"' year of his
age.

In memory of

Mrs. Lucy Burritt, Wife of Mr.
Charles Burritt, who departed this
life, June 26, 1789, In the 6r' year of
his age.

56o

History of Stratford.

This monument is erected to per-
petuate the memorj' of
Mrs. Sarah Burritf, Wife of Mr.
Elijah Burritt, who died Jan. 12'^,
1805, in the 63'* year of her age.

In memory of
Isaac Burritt, son' of Mr. Elihu &
Mrs. Eunice Burritt, who died March
16, 1766, in y" 4"" 3-ear of his age.

Cornelia, Daughter of Mr. Isaac and
Mrs. Rebecca Burroughs, died Oct.
8"^, 1S05, aged 5 years & 2S days.

In memory of
Mr, Edivard Burroughs, who de-
parted this Life Sept. the 14"', 1776,
in the 42'' year of his age.
Glory with all her lamps shall burn.
And watch the Warrior's sleeping Clay
Rest his dear sword beneath his head,
Round him his faithful Arms shall stand
The Guards and Honors of our Land.

Mrs. Grizzel Burroughs, Widow
of the late Mr. Edward Burroughs,
died Nov'' 19"', 1812, aged 78 years.
Rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, con-
tinuing instant in Prayer.

Stephen Burroughs, Esq. A man

distinguished by his industry & his
talents & acquirements, self-taught,
and original, he explored the vast
field of Mathematical & Astronomical
Science beyond all the efforts of a
Cassini or a Newton, & made discov-
eries of the most useful & a'^tonishing
nature. But in consequence of blind-
ness his discoveries are lost to the
world. Hedied Aug. 2, 1817, aged 8S.
This monument is erected by Pix-
ley Judson.

In memor}- of
Mrs. Huldah Burroughs, Wife
of Stephen Burroughs, Esqr., and
Daughter of Mr. Peter and Mrs. Mary
Pixlee, who departed this life July g^i^,
1803, in the 66"" year of her age.

Here lies Interred the Body of
Mrs. Buth Button, y wife of Mr.
Solomon Burton, who Dec'' Nov. y'=
9, 1748, in y* 30''' year of her age.

Ahhg Jane, Daughter of George &
Sarah Butler, Died Nov. i*\ 1873, JE.
21.

Sarah, Daughter of George & Sarah
Butler, Died May i^«, 18S2, .'E. 21.

Wni, H. Butler, Died Dec. 29, 1879,
aged 36 years.

Dear father we miss you.
Gone but not forgotten.

In Memory of
Daniel Porter Cable, Son of Mr.

Samuel & Mrs. Mary Cable, Who
died April 20, 1765, in y" 4"^ year of
his Age.

In memory of
Mrs. Mary, Wife of Mr. Samuel
Cable, who departed this life Dec' 7"",
1793. Aged 54 years.

In Memory of
Mrs. Behekah Cable, Relict of Mr.
Andrew Cable, who died Feb>', 23'',
1799, aged 80 years & g days.
In Memory of
Mr. Wheeler Cable, who departed
this life June 3'', 17S2, in the 24*'' year
of his age.

I pass the gloomy vale of death.
From all danger free.
And trust to live with Christ
To all eternity.

Ye Beverend 3Ir. Charles
Chaunceg, Minister of y" Gospel
at Stratfield, aged 48 years. Died
December — 1714.

Here lies the Body of

Abiah Chaunceg, Daughf to Mr.
Robert & Mrs. Hannah Chauncey,
who dec'' Nov'' y" 10, 1748, in y^ 19"'
year of her age.

To the Memory ot

Frances Maria Clarke, daughter
of Mr. Ransom Clark and Mrs. Mary
Anna Clark, his wife, deceased Aug-
ust 2^, 1792, aged 2 )'ears & 67 days.
In Memory of an

Infant son of Mr. Ransom Clark &
Mrs. Mary Anna, his Wife, departed
this life, i6"' Feb"' 1792, aged 3 days.

Eusebia Clark, Daughter of Mr.
Daniel & Mrs. Caty Clark, died Sept.
14"', 1812. aged I year & 9 months.

Patience Maria, Daughter of Ele-
azer & Patience Edgerton, Feb>' 15"^,
i8ir, Aged 13 days.

Marg Elizabeth , Daughter of Ele-
azer & Patience Edgerton, died Dec'
30"', 1821, Aged 7 months & 6 days.
Sleep on sweet babe and take thy rest,
God called thee home, he see 'twas best.

Here lyes Interr'd ye Body of y'
Bevd. 3Ir. Samuel Cooke, Late
Faithful! minister of Stratfield, Who
died Dec' 2'', 1747, Aged 63 Years.
Here lyes Buried y** Body of
Mrs. Anne Cooke, Wife to y* Rev^
Mr. Samuel Cooke, Who Died Aug-
ust 11"', 1721, in y 34"> Year of Her
Age.

Strat field Buryiiig.placc.

;0i

w^-

■A..-

err

HeT

jjyes Int

^ Body of ^e Rev?

M^ Samuel Cooke

Late Taitlifiill
Miniftev oiJhatfield

wlio diea Dec'jV 2 'f

In memory of
3I((ry Detfhirst, who died June, 5,
1843, aged 47 Years.

John Edwards — See next page.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
3Irs. Mary EtJivards, Relict of
Mr. John Edwards, who Died March
6, 1749, in V* 82"'^ year of her age.
Eunice^ Daughter of Joseph and Pru-
dence (VVakelee) Edwards, died 1731,
aged I month.

Within the Compass of this narrow

grave lies the remains of
3Iercyy Daughter of Nathaniel &
Hannah Ells, who died Nov. 6"', 179S.
Aged 4 months.

Peace to thy ashes thou lovely babe.

In memory of
Ijt. Hevjamin Fay^'i'ircafJier,

who departed this Life, June 20''',
1791, In the 74"' year of his age.

Joseph, Son of Mr. James & Mrs.
Marcy Fa\ erweather, was born Jan'y
13"' and died Aug'' 13"', 179S.

3Ifn'i(i, Daughter of Mr. James &
Mrs. Marcy Fayerweather, died Sept'
7"', 1805, Aged 16 months.

B. F. [In line with the Burrs.]

Here lycs the Body of
Mr. Benjamin Fayrewcathei'.

Dec' 6''', 1725, Year of Age.

562

History of Stratford.

Here l^es Buried the Body of
Wrs. Sarah Noquier, Widow of
Mr. Benjamin Fayreweather & Mr.
Antony Noquier, who departed this
life May the 25"', A. D. 1743, in y« 67
year of Her Age.

In Memory of
A-nn, Wife of John Fayerweather, who
was Born April 27, 1712, at 5 in the
morning & Died Sept. 24, 1773.
Walter Fatfre^veather, Aged 6

Years, Died Dec. 26, 1717.
S, W., Decemb' 18, 1707. [In the

Fayerweather line.]
2).X).^i688. [In the Fayerweather line.]

In memory of

Gilbert Fotcler, who died Mar. 5,

1848, aged 52 years, 6 ms. & 10 ds.

In Memory of

Anna, wife of Gilbert Fowler, who

died April 12, 1844, aged 44 years, 2

ms. & 10 ds.

In memory of
Benoni French, who died Dec. 20,
1823, aged 85 years.

In memory of
Mihitable, wife of Benoni French,
who died August 12, 1814, vE. 71.

In memory of
Drucilla, wife of Capt. Joseph B.

French, who died June ^^5, 1830, in

her 42 year.
Drusilla Wheeler FrencJi/daugh-

ter of Mr. Joseph B. & Mrs. Drusilla

French, died Aug' 29"^, 1810, aged 10

months.

In Memory of
Gamaliel French, Jan., who died

June 28, 1828, aged 72 Years.

In Memory of
Susannah, wife of Gamaliel French,
who died March 18, 1835, aged 74
years.

Here lyes Buried y" Body of
Mrs. Hannah French, Wife to
Gamaliel French, Who Departed this
life October the 10"', 1745, Aged 33
years.

Here lyes Buried y" Body of
Mrs. Sarah French, Wife to Mr.
Gamaliel French, Who Departed this
life May y" 27"', 1758, in y" 32'' year
of Her Age.

In Memory of
James H. French, who died Jan.
14, 1835, in the 83 year of his age.

St rat field Bii rying- place.

;63

In Memory of
Anna, wife of James R. Freiicli, Died

March iS, 1841, ^E. 70 years.
Julia Ana, daughter of James R. &
Ann French, died April 20''', 1S25, in
her 17 year.
In bloom of life death laid me down
Till the last joyful trump shall sound,
Then burst the chains with sweet surprise
And in my Saviour's image rise.
In Memory of
Mt'8. Mary Fienrh, Wife of Mr.
James French, who died Feb'' 10"',
1803, aged 45 years & ic months.
Here lyes y'^ Body of
Sei'f/t. Samuel French, aged 65
years. Ueces'' Dec'' 3" 20, 1732.
In memory of
Wabe, Relict of Sainuel French, who

died May 2, 1S37, Aged 76 years.
Salmon Patchen, hur first husband,
died April 19, 1S07, aged 40 yrs.
In memory of
Daniel (Hover, who died Nov. 8,
1830, Aged 87 yrs. 8 mo. & 6 days.
In memorj' of
Sally Glover, who departed this life
Oct. 8, A. D. 1804, aged 57 years & 6
months.
George liouyhton douye. Son of
Mr. Thomas & Mrs. Ruth Gouge,
dec' Feb''>' 21^', 1801, aged 5 years &
II months.

In memory of
Esther Gregory, Wife of Mr. Enoch
Gregor}', Who departed this life July
16"', 1790, in the 83'' year of her age.
Lilly 3Iaria, Daughter of Mr. James
& Mrs. Philena Gregory, died JanJ'
so"", 1792, aged i year & 14 days.
Here Iveth y" Body of
3£ary Gregory, an infant whose
birth enriched her parents on March
y«' 8"', 1725, & she died in y"^ 14"'
month of her age April y" 17, 1726.
In memory of
Muth Gregory, late amiable Con-
sort of Ens. Seth Gregory, who died
Ocf II, AD. 1772, aged 36 years &
6 months wanting i D.

How loved, how valued once

avails thee not.
To whom related

or by whom forgot
A heap of dust alone
remains of thee.
In memory of
Samuel Gregory, son of Mr. Seth
& Mrs. Ruth Gregory, who died
Decem'"' i'', 1766, in y" 6"' year of
his age.

Here lyts Hiiricd v" Body of
Eh .sign Sannul Gregory, Who

Departed this Life Ucccmb. y' il"",
A into Domini 1743, in y 66"' Year
of His Age.

in memory of
3Ir, llHKhU'iis f Gregory, who died
I Dec. 30"', 1777. in the 77"' year of
j His Age.

I Here lyes y " Body of

i Mr. Selah Gregory, son of Mr.
Thaddeus & Mrs. Rcbcckaii Gregory,
who Departed this life Sept. y" 15"',
1758, in y" 26"' Year of His Age.
In memory of
Miss Jliildah Gregory, Daughter
of Mr. Thaddeus Gregory Jun' and
Mrs. Huldah his Wife, Who was born
4 months after the Death of her Fath-
er, and died July 24"', 1798, in the
21'' year of her age.

Here lyes y Body of
liet}jawiu Itall, ?.on of Mr. Francis
& Mrs. Margaret Hall, who Died
Aug. 25"', 1738, in y" 21" year of his
age.

Here lyes the Body of
David Hall, aged 10 years & 7 mo.

Dec' February y" 15'", 1725/6.
Ephraim Hall, son of Mr. EInathan
& Mrs. Hannah Hall, Died April 22'',

1739, aged I year «.^: 3 Days.

I. H., iii().

Ephraim Hall, son of Mr. EInathan
& Mrs. Hannah Hall, Died July 2',

1740, Aged 14 Days.

Here lyes Buried y'" Bodv of
Mr. Francis J la II, Jim>'., Who
Died February 26"', Anno Domni
1734/5, '" y" 30"" year of his age.

Here lyes Buried y" Body of
Mrs. Hannah Hall, Wife to Mr.
EInathan Hall, who Departed this
life April 9''', Anno Dom>>> 1741, in
y« 26"' year of her age.

In memory of
Mrs. Huldah Hall, Dau. of Mr.
Richard A: Mrs. Hannah Hail, who
Departed this life Aug. 17"', 1773, in
the 20"' year of her age.

In memory of
James Seley Hall, son of Mr. James
& Mrs. Abigail Hal), Who died' April
y" 29"", 1770, in y" 2d year of His Age.

Here lies Interr' the Body of

Mr. John ifall, who dec' .\pril y*

17, 1749, in the 71" year of his Age.

564

History of Stratford.

Here lyes y Body of j

Garshain, son of John & Abigail
Hall, Deci NoV y"^ 16"^, 1746, in y«
26 year of his Age.

Here lyes y'' Body of
Mrs. Sarah Hall, Wife to Mr. John
Hall, who died April 6, A7tno Dom"'
1739, Aged 26 years.

Here lyes the Body of

3Iartha Hall, Dec' NoV^ y« I3t^

1747, in y" 31'* year of her Age.

In memory of

Richard Hall, who died Sept. 23,

1826, aged 47 years.

In memory of
Sally, wife of Richard Hall, who died

March 12, 1840, aged 61 years.
Orrin 31., son of Richard & Sally
Hall, died Jan. 4, 1820, aged 4 years
& 10 months.
Delia F. Hall, daughter of Richard
& Sally Hall, died Aug. 16, 1826,
aged 18 years.

This lovely youth so young & fair,
Called hence by early doom,
Just come to show how bright a flower
In paradise could bloom.

Here lyes y^ Body of
Daniel Harmon, soii of Deacon
John & Mrs. Mary Harmon of Suf-
field, who died at Stratford, June y«
22°"*, 1763, in y" 21"' year of his age.
Major Aaron Hawley in his turn
received the Shaft of Death, July 21=',
1803, in 63'' year of his age, and was
here deposited in hopes of a glorious
Resurrection.

Man needs but little, nor that little long,
How soon must he resign his very dust
Which frugal nature lent him for an hour.

Here lies the body of
Elizabeth Haivley, wife of Mr.
Aaron Hawley, Daughter of Capt.
Ezra Hawley & Mrs. Abigail Haw-
ley, who departed this Life July the
8*1^, 1776, aged 35 years, 4 months &
6 days.

In memory of
3Irs, Sarah Hawley, wife of Mr.
Aaron Hawley and Daughter of Mr.
John Comstock, who departed this
life May 3'', A. D. 1786, aged 39
years, 6 months.

In memory of
William Hatvley, Son of Mr. Aaron
& Mrs. Sarah Hawley, who deC^ Jan.
8, A. D. 1787, Aged i year, 9 Months
& 10 Days.

Here lyes Buried the Bod}' of
Ca2)t. Ezra Hawley, who departed
this life April the 27''', 1773, in y^ 62'*
Year of His Age.

In memory of

Mrs. Abigail Haivley, Wife of

Capt. Ezra Hawlej', who Departed

this Life April 18"^, 1786, in the 71''

year of her Age,

Thrice happy she who walked the Christian

road
And now enjoys her Saviour and her God.

Thomas Hatvley, son of Mr. Ezra
«& Mrs. Abigail Hawley, died Nov."'
28*, 1736, aged 10 months.
In memory of

3Ir. Ezra Hawley, who departed
May 9"^, 1796, in the 50"' year of his
Age.

Here lyes y* Body of

Mrs. Abigail Hawley, wife of Mr.
Ezra Hawley, who departed this life
Sept. y*' 2"'^ 1772, in y' 24"' year of
her age.

Until Hawley, Wife of Ezra Hawley,
died Jan. 4, 1829, aged 75 years.

Eliza Hawley, Daughter of Mr.
Abijah & Mrs. Polly Hawley, died
March 28"^, 1S02, aged 14 months.
In Memory of

Ephraim Hawley, Junr., Son of
Mr. Ephraim & Mrs. Sarah Hawley,
who died April 11, 1777, aged 30
years ; Also

William Hawley. This son Died
Janr^' — 1783, aged 47 years.
Here lyes Buried

Mrs. AnnaJi Halley, Wife to Mr.
Gideon Halley, Dec' NoV y" 14^'',
1727, in y<^ 36"^ Year of her age.
Here lyes y'^ Body of

Mr. Gideon Halley, Dec* Febs y«

16"^, 17!^ in y« 43'' year of His Age.

Here lyes y'' Body of

Mrs. Annah Hatvley, wife to^Mr.
Gideon Hawley, Dec'' Nov. y*^ 14,
1727, in y'^' 36"^ year of her age.

Isaac Ebenezer, Son of Mr. Zaimon
& Mrs. Anna Hawley, died May 26"",
1811, aged 2 years & 5 months.
Here lyes Buried the Body of

Sergt. James Haivley, Who De-
parted this Life Oct'"' 7"", A. D., 1746,
in y' 34"" year of his age.

Mrs. Eunice Bennitt, First Widow
of James Hawley & after, of Isaac
Bennitt, departed Sept. 6"^, 1796, in
the 82* year of her age.

Str at field Buryin^-place.

5^':

Eunice Hawley Cliapm an. Born

in Bridgeport, Died in Brooklyn, N.
Y., May 12, 1863, aged 85 yrs.

She was a light in the age in which she lived.
After three years incessant labour she obtain-
ed from the Legislature of New York, in the

year 1818, the first law ever enacted in any

country which gives to married women rights

over their children and property. This has

since been amended and adopted by most of the

States of the Union.

Woman Call her Blessed.

Anna Ilawleif, Dau" of Mr. James
& Mrs. Eunice Hawlev, Died Sept.
26, 1736, Aged 10 months & 10 Days.

Lucy, daughter of Mr. Samuel & Mrs.
Lucy Hawley, died June 7, 1797, Aged
3 months.

Elizabeth, daughter of Mr. Samuel &:
Mrs. Lucy Hawley, Dece' June 7"",
1792, Aged 7 months.

In Memory of

3Irs. Molly Haivley, Dau«'^ of Mr.
Samuel & Mrs. Sarah Hawley, who
departed this life April 4*'', 1765,
Aged 17 years.

In memory of

3Irs, Sarah Hawley, Wife of Capt.
David Hawley, who departed this life
Feb'^' the 8'^, 1781, Aged 36 Years
wanting 11 Days.

Here lyes Buried the Body of

ISIr. Samuel Hawley, Who De-
parted this Life September n"" Anno
Dom. 1749, Aged 31 years.
Here lyes y® Body of

Deacon Thomas Haivley, Aged
44 years. Who dec' May y* 6"', 1722.
Here lyes y' Body of

Mt's. Joanna Haivley, widow of
Deacon Thomas Hawley, Who de-
parted this life Jan. y" 28, 1761, in y"
84"' year of her age.

In memory of

3Ir. Tliotnas Haivley, who de-
parted this Life Nov' 19"'', 1797, In
the 59"' year of his age.
In memory of

Mrs. Anna Haivley, Relict of Mr.
Thomas Hawley. who died Dec. 24"",
1810. aged 67 years.

In memory of

Mr. Wolrott Hawley, who depart-
ed this Life Jan>' 9"', 1799, In the 62'*
Year of His Age.

In memory of

Mrs. Ellen Hawley, Relict of Mr.
Wolcott Hawley, \vho died Feb^ 9"",
1823, aged 81 years.

Interred is the remains of
Cant, flames Hayt, who died Nov

7''', 1787, aged 54 years.
He was a Seaman in every sense of the word,
and as such will be rcincinbcred.

Interrcri is the remains of
3Irs. Sarah Jfayt, Relict of Capt.

James Hayt, who died May 19"", 1807,

aged 73 years.

As her death is regretted may her conduct in
life be remembered.

In Memory of
Jenny, the faithful servant of Capt.

James and Mrs. Sarah Hayt. She

died in June, 1807, a few weeks after

her old mistress, regretting she could

not go with her.

Born in Africa and supposed to be
near 60 years old.

Worth does not depend on color.

This stone is erected in memory of
Mr. James Hayt, who departed

this life May 5, [804, aged 48 years.
Mercy Nichols Hayt, Born Jan.

23'S 1759. Died Sept. 8, 1839.
3Iary Elizabeth Hayt, Born Aug.

II, 1781.

James Nichols Hayt, Born Mar.

16, 1784. Died at sea.
3Iitnson Ifayt, Born Aug. 12, 1786.
Ehilip Hayt, Born Sept. 3, 1789,

Died Sept. 25, 1S40.
James Hayt, Born Sept. 3, 1789.

Died Oct. 6,' 17S9.
Frances Auyiista Hayt, Born

Aug. 19, 1800, Died Oct. 24, 1819.
Interred are the remains of
Josiah Stiiryis Hayt, son of

George & Deborah Hayt, Born 4""

of April, iSoo, Died 4"'' Jan. 1802.
In Memory of
George Ifolfterton, son of Mr.

Thomas & Mrs. Ruth Holberton, who

died Oct. y" 5"", 1777, aged 20 months.
Eunice Holberton, Died Sept. 20,

1843, ^. 66 [or 68] years.

John Hopkins, Died June 28, 1808,

Aged 51.

Mehetable, wife of John Hopkins,

Died Sept. 16, 1824, In her 51 year.

In memory of

Susan, wife of James Hopkins, who

died Jan. 6, 1837, .E. 36 yrs.

Modesty and meekness ailorned her life,

Faith and hope supported her in death.

In memory of
Catharine Ifopkins, who died

Sept. 20, 1825, in her 22 year.
The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.

566

History of Stratford.

In memory of
Aaron Hifhbellf who died Oct. 13,

1848, jE. 87 years.

In memory of
Sarah, Wife of Aaron Hubbell, died
March 15, 1851, ^. 84 years.

In memory of
Ahel Hubbell, who died Jan. 6, 1832,
aged 103 yrs. 6 mo. & 26 ds.

Abell Hnbbell, died May 28, 1852,

aged 62 years.
MutJl, wife of Abel Hubbell, died
Feb. 10, 1864, JE. 6g yrs. 10 mo. &
4 ds.

This Stone is erected in memory of
Cfi2)t' Atnos Hubbell, who died
July 2'^, 1801, aged 55 years.
Which also records the death of his
two sons,
Amos and Wilson; The former of
whom died at the Havannah on the
15* day of October, 1798. by a malig-
nant fever, aged 18 years.
And the latter was deprived of life whilst in
the proper discharge of the duties of his pro-
fession by an unprincipled officer of a French
Privateer, who deaf to the claims of justice and
the cries of humanity, plunged the sufferer into
the ocean and left him to perish in the waves,
on the 5th day of April, 1799, aged 26 years.

"When sweet content serenely smiles around,
Like a fair summer evening, Ah ! how soon
The charming scene is lost, the deepening

shades
Prevail and night approaches, dark and sad.
Till the last beams, faint glimering die away.

In memory of
3Irs. Catharine Hubbell, Wife of
Mr. Amos Hubbell, who departed
this life January 4*"^, 1776, eight days
after the birth of her third child, in
the 23'* year of her age.
In youthful bloom death laid me down
Here to await the Trumpet's sound.
When God commands then Will I rise
And meet my Saviour in the skies.

In memory of

Amos Hubbell, son of Mr. Amos &
Mrs. Catharine Hubbell, Who died
Sept. 10"', 1777, in y"* 7*'> year of his
Age.

In memory of

Eleanor Hubbell, Daughter of Mr.
Amos & Mrs. Eleanor Hubbell, who
departed this life March 22'', 1786,
Aged I year g months and 10 days.

In Memory of
Jifr. JBenjamin Hubbell, who de-
parted this life Febr> 24"^, 1793, in the
76"^ year of his age.

In memory of
3Irs. 3Iary Hubbell, Relict of Mr.
Benjamin Hubbell, who died Aug**
29"', 18 13, aged 92 years & i month.

In Memory of
3Ir. John Hubbell, Son of Mr. Ben-
jamin and Mrs. Mary Hubbell, who
died Feb''> 7'^, 1808, aged 63 years, 3
months & 7 days.

In memory of

Elizabeth, wife of Mr. John Hubbell,
Died March 13, 1840, In the 90*'' year
of her age.

Here lyes the Body of

Mrs. Anne Hubbell, only daughter
of Mr. Benjamin & Mrs. Mary Hub-
bell, who departed this life Mayy'g"',
1770, in y' 23'^ year of her age.

Catharine 3Iaria, Daughter of
Capt. Ezra & Mrs. Mary Alice Hub-
bell, died Aug' 8*^^, 1801, aged 2 years
wanting 8 days.

Here lyes 3" Body of

Cajtt. Daniel Hubbell, Died De-
cember y« 11"', 1735, in y'= 45"' year
of his Age.

In memory of

Eunice Hubbell, relict of Mr. Abra-
ham Hubbell, who departed this life
Sept. 4, 1794, in the 38"^ year of her
age.

In memory of

3Ii\ Daniel Hubbell, vvho died
March 4*'', 1801, in the 77"" year of
his age.

In memory of

3Irs. Sarah Hubbell, Relict of Mr.
Daniel Hubbell, who died April ii,
1801, in the 73'^ year of her age.
In memory of

3Iiss Esther Hubbell, daughter of
Mr. Daniel & Mrs. Sarah Hubbell,
who died Nov"" 7"', 1802, in the 36*''
year of her age.

In memory of

3Iiss Hebechah Hubbell, Daughter
of Mr. Daniel & Mrs. Sarah Hubbell,
who died May 8, 1796, in the 39"»year
of her age.

In memorj' of

Daniel Hubbell, Junr., son of Mr.
Daniel & Mrs. Sarah Hubbell, who
departed this life Jan. 12*, 1778, In
the 28*'" Year of his age.

You mourners all that see me die

Must quickly follow me.
Come and see me where I lie

A mouldering in the earth.

Sir at field Burying-p/acc

567

In memory of
Sarah Ifnhhell, who died Oct. 9,
1842, aged 81 )rs.

In memory of
Hezehiah llnhhell, Esqr., Son of

Richard & Penelope Hubbell, Who
Deiy this life July 19"', 1784, Aged
56 years 4 months & 12 days.
Here lies interred the remains of
Capt. Isaac Iltihhell, who departed
this life May the 22'', 1787, in the 40
year of His Age.
Here lies interred the remains of
Mrs. Frauds llnbhell, wife of
Capt. Isaac Hubbell, Who departed
this Life May the 21", 1786, in the
34*"^ year of her Age.

In memory of
JTames Ilabbell, who died Sept. 15,
1827, aged 70 years.

In memory of
3Ir. John Hubbell, who departed
this life April 8"', 1774, In the Ss""
Year of his Age.

In memory of
Josiah Ilubbull, son of Mr. Walter
& Mrs. Ruth Hubbell, Who died
Ocf 14, 1765, Aged 15 months.
In memory of
David Hubbell, son of Mr. Walter
& Mrs. Ruth Hubbell, who died Oct'
ye jst^ i-jTj, Aged 16 months and 17
DaAs.

In memory of
Onessiinus Hubbell, who died
Sept. 14"'. 1824, in the 69*'' year of
his age.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
Oneshnns Hubbell, son of Mr.
Joseph & Mrs. Keziah Hubbell, who
departed this life Decb'' 3', 1754, in y*
23*^ year of his age.

In men.or}- of
Heacn Jiichard Hubbell, who de-
parted this Life June 27"', 1787, In
the 93'^ Year of liis Age.
Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord.

In memory of
3Irs. Penelojje Hubbell, Relict to
Deac" Richard Hubbell, who departed
this Life Aug*' 29"', 1791, In the 87"'
year of her Age.
For they rest from their labors and their works
do follow them.

In memory of
3Ir, Benjamin Ifubbell, Eldest |
Son of Deac" Richard Hubbell, who ,
departed this Life Sepf 17"', AD j
1788, in the 62'' Year of his age.
Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. '

In nicini)r\ of
liirhiird liubbrU, who (iic^i .u uic
city of N. v.. July 16. 1829. in his
87 year.

In memory of
ItOJCana, wife of Richard Hubbell.
who died Dec. 28, 1805, in her 60
year.

In memory of
Charles I ftibbttl, son of Mr. Rich-
ard c\: Mrs. Roxana Hubbell. who
departed this Life [une 15"', 1786,
Aged I Year & 7 Days.
In memory of
JPenelojie, Daughter of Richard &
Roxana Hubbell, who died Feb. 21,
1864, vE. 92 years.

Here lies V Hodv of
Phylo Hultbill, Son of' Mr. Richard
Hubbill. Jun. & Mrs. Roxane his
wife who departed this Life Feb' the
13, 1774, Aged 4 years.
Happy the child who privileged by Kate

to Shorten labour & Lighter wait,
Received but yesterday the gift of breath
ordered to morrow to return to death.

In memory of
Sarah, Wife of Jabe'z Hubbell. died
Jan> ye I2'\ 1754, in ye 22 vear of her
age.

In memory of
Mr. Stephen Hubbell, who depart-
ed this life April 29"', 1792, In the
98"' year of his age.

In memory of
Mrs. Abigail, Wife of Mr. Stephen
Hubbell, Who died Aug" i", 1777,
In the S4 year of her age.

Here lyes Buried y" Body of
Rebeekali Hubbell, Daughter of
Mr. Stephen & Mrs. Rebeckah Hub-
bell, Who departed this life. Nov' v*
9i 1754. y° iq"" year of her age.
In memory of
Thaddeus Hubbell, who died Nov.
30, 1849, JE. 85 yrs.

In memory of
Eunice Hubbell, wife of Thaddeus
Hubbell, who died May i. 1838, aged
68 yrs.

Bille Jackson, Son of Mr. Isaac A:
Mrs. Rachel Jackson, Died Aug" 2**.
1739, Aged 5 days.

Henri/ Jackson, who died Septem-
ber 15, 1717, aged 3S years.

James, Son of Mr. Samuel & Mrs.
Peninah Jackson. Departed this life
March 3'' 19"'. 1757, In y G'*" Year of
his Age.

568

History of Stratford.

Here lies the Body of
Joseph Jaclxson, Died the 29 of

Septemb'', 1714.
M. J"., Nov. 13, 1712. [Probably a

Jackson.]
It. J. My 14, 1712. [Probably a

Jackson.]

M, J. D. S.

E. P. 1131.

In memory of
Elijihalct flennhigSf who died

Aug. 22, 1839, aged 85 yrs.
In memory of
Sarah Boss, wife of Eliphalet Jen-
nings, who died June 6, 1839, aged 83

years.
tTames Jennings, Died Feb. 4,

1869, Aged 76.
Mart/ E., daughter of Thomas &

Mary E. Jenkins, died Oct. 19, 1842,

M. 4 ys.
Ira Jones, died May 25"', 1836, Aged

65 years.
Charity, Wife of Ira Jones, died May

14, 1845, Aged 73 years.
Ularjl H., Daughter of Christopher

& Margaret Keiser. died Mar. 6, 1862,

M. 3 yrs. 10 mos. & 10 ds.
In memory of
Mr. Patrick Keeler, who died Oct"

I5"», 1829, in the 76"' year of his age.
In memory of
Mrs. Anna Keeler, Wife of Mr.

Patrick Keeler, who died Dec' 21^',

1815, in ihe 63=^ year of her age.

Sarah, Wife of Patrick Keeler, Died

Aug. 20, 1S51, JE. So.
J. d- W. K.

In memory of
3Ir. Ezra Kirtland, who died Aug.
22'^ 1800, in the 70 year of his age.
In Memory of
3Irs, Olive Kirtland, Relict of Mr.
Ezra Kirtland, who died Sept. 23'',
1803, in the 69"' year of her age.
In Memor)' of
Olive Kirtland, Daughter of Ezra
Kirtland, Jun., who died July 15,
1775, in the 3"* year of her Age.
In mem or)' of
Mr. Ezra Kirtland, Jr., who died
Dec. 27"^, 1799, in the 47"" year of his
age.

In memory of
Olive Kirtland , Daughter of Mr.
Ezra & Mrs. Sarah Kirtland, who
died Aug. 14*, 1790, Aged 14 years
& 2 months.

In memory of
Mr. Zebulon Kirtland, who died
Jan5 2'', 1803, in the 48"' year ol his
age.

In memory of
Elizaheth, widow of Zebulon Kirt-
land, who died Jan. 5, 1842, aged go
years.

In memorj' of
Mrs. Freelove Knapi), Wife of
Mr. Joseph Knapp & Dau''' of Mr.
Ebenezer & Mrs. Patience Plumb,
who died Nov'' 24"', 1771, in y" 31"'
year of her age.

Strut field Ihtrymg-placc.

569

In memory of
tfoseph Knap/), Jtm., Son of Mr.

Joseph & Mrs. Freelovf Knapp. died
Aug*' the 20"', 1767, Aged 2 years.
In memory of

Mf. JoJtn K II ap2), who died Aug-
ust 3'', 1795, in the 82 year of his age.
In memor}' of

Mrs. Hannah Knapp, Wife of
Mr. John Knapj). who died [any. 28"",
1796, in tlie 76''' year of her age.
In memory of

Robert Knajyp, who died April 11.
1S34, aged 52 years cS: 10 months.
Mother

Salff/, wife of Robert Knapp, Died
Aug. 15, 1861, Aged 76 yrs. i mo. &
8 Ds.

To the memory of

Mahal a Wiffson Kiiapit, Daugh-
ter of Mr. Robert >S: .Mrs. Sally Knapp
(a very promising child) born July
lo*'', 1804, and died July 18"', 1807,
aged 3 years & 8 days.
In memory of

Mrs. Anna Knoivles, first the wife
of Mr. Joseph Sturges, late of Stam-
ford, dec'', and last the wife of Mr.
William Knowles, late of New Mil-
ford, dec'^. She died July 26"', i8oi,
in the 80"' year of Her Age.

Mrs. Abigail Lacen.

Hannah Suinniers, Wife of Ed-
ward Lacey, died Oct. 14, 1755, aged
about 43 3ears.

In memory of

Mr. Senjaniin Laceif, who de-
parted this life Sept. 13''', AD 1784,
aged 45 years on the same day.
In memory of

Mrs. Mart/aret Lavij, Wife of y
late Mr. Benjamin Lacey, who de-
parted this life, Sept. i, A. D., 1792,
in the 52'^ jear of her age.

Daniel Ziaceij, died Dec. 17, 182S,
in his 86 year.

Tahitha Lacey, wife of Daniel La-
cey, died Aug. 9, 1814, in the 64 year
of her age.

tfohn Laceij, died June 25, 1856, JE.
79 yrs. & 9 mo.

In memory of

EunicCf wife of John Lacey, who died
Feb. 17, 1840, aged 56 years.
In memory of

3Ir. John Laeej/, who departed
this Life Feb> io'\ 1793, In the 84">
year of his age.

I In memory of

I Mrs. Marff Laref/, Rdici of Mr.
John Lacev, who died April I, 1810,
in the gi*' year of her age.
! Josiah Larff/, Est/., departed this
I life Oct. 28"', 1812, in ihe 67"' Year
of his age.
He was a ('aptaiii in tlie Revolutionary
Army and a leading citizen.

In inemurv of
I 3frs. t/uffith Larcft, Wife of Capt.
Josiah Lacey, who departed this life
June y" 3"*, 17S0, aged 31 years & 5
months wanting 3 days.
In memory of

Mrs. Rath Larey, Wife to Capt.
Josiah Lacey, who departed this life
April iS"", 17S8. .aged 27 years & 8
months wanting i Day.
In memory of

Mrs. Molly Lacey, Wife of Capt.
Josiah Lacey, who departed this Life
Jan> 30''', 1793, aged 32 years 8
months & 12 days.

In memory of

3Irs. Anna Larey, Wife of Josiah
Lacey, Ksqr., Wlio departed this life
April 7, A. D. 1812, aged 46 years 3
months and 2 days.

Nathaniel Hazard, son to Capt.
Josiah & Mrs. Molly Lacey, Depart-
ed this life May 9, 1792, aged 14
months, wanting 5 Days.

Levi L. Lacey, Died April i, 1S45,
Aged 33 yrs.

In memory of

Michael Larey, who died Nov. 12.
1835, ^E. 51 yrs.

In memory of

Retsey, wife of Michael Lacey, who
died Dec. 14, 1S23, aged 38 years.

Robert Lacey, died Nov. 23, 1832,
aged 22 years.

In memory of

Sarah Lacey, who died May 3, 1838,
aged 65 years.

In memory of

Squire Lacey, who died Dec. 27,
1819, in his 31'" year.

Urban Lacey, died March 20, 1S77,
Aged 72 yrs.
In memory of her that was once

Miss Rath tn nf fin. Horn Dec. 2^
1731; married to Mr. Joseph Brins-
maid Oct". 1748 ; and secondly to Dr.
W'" Little, Nov^ 2', 1762. She de-
parted this Lite for Immortality Dec'
2'^, 1784, aged 53 Years.
Her remains are buried beneath this Stone.

570

History of Stratford.

In memor}' of
Elenor, wife of Eaden Leavens, who
died June 30, 1835, JE. 55 years.

In memorj' of
Mrs. Eunice, Relict of Mr. George
Lyman, who died Oct. 10, 1819, aged
67 years.

Here Ives Buried y" Body of
Mr. 3Iathetv Mackhard, Who
Died Feb"' y" 9"^, Anno Domni 1736/7,
in y* 28'^ Year of His Age.

Here lyes Buried y" Bod}'^ of
3Ir. 3Iafherv 3Iackharcl. son of

Mr. Mathew& Mrs. Sarah Mackhard,
Who was drowned July y« 22'', 1757,
in y" 21^* Year of His Age.

Mary Mackhard, Dau" of Mr.
Maihew & Mrs. Sarah Mackhard,
Died Jan>' 30''', 1737, Aged 2 years &
6 months.

Here lyes Buried y'^ Body of

3Ir. John Mallet, who Departed
this life September 28"^, Anno Dotn"^
1745, in y^ 72<* year of his age.

Here Ives the bodv of
Sarah 3Iaffit, Wife of John Mallit,

Died Dec'' y'' 5"', 1742, in y 26 year

of her age.

Here lyes y" Body of
3Irs. Joanna 3Iallit, widow to

Mr. John Mallit. who departed this

life Sept y" 16, 1764, in y" loi"* year

of her age.

Here lyes y« Body of
Htlldah 3IaUett, Dau" of Mr. John

Mallett, Junr., who died Oct. y® 29,

1758, in y*' 2<' year of her age.
Laura, Daughter of Mr. Lewis & Mrs.

Anna Mallet, died April 3"i, 1795,

Aged 2 years i month & S days.
Henry 3Ianni}ig, Died Jan. 5,

1852, M. 48 years.

In memory of
Mr. David 3Ieaker, who died Nov.

24*'', 1828, in the 73'* year of his age.

In memorv of
Esther 3Ieaker, Wife of Mr. David

Meaker, who died May 26''', 1S12, in

the 48"' year of her age.
Mrs. Pollji 3Ieeker, Died Aug. 29,

1817, /E. 26 yrs.

Nathan S. 3Ieeker, Died of Yellow
Fever at Staten Island, N. Y., Sept.
27, 1821, JE. 31 yrs.

Ann li, 3Iiddlehrook, Died Dec.
I, 1850, M. 24 yrs.

In memory of
Anne, wife of Anson Morehouse, who
died May 11, 1823. aged 37 years.

In memorj' of
Lorintha, dau*'' of Anson & Anne
Morehouse, who died Sept. 10, 1841,
Aged 30 years.

In memory of
3Irs. Eunice 3Iorehouse, Wife of
Mr. Lyman Morehouse, Who died
March 14"', 1800, In the 27*^' year of
her age.

In memory of
Sarah 3Iorehotise, wife of Isaac
Morehouse, who died Aug. 22, 1837,
aged 86.

In memory of
Abigail, wife of Samuel Morehouse,
who died Aug. 29, 1826, aged 44
years.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
3Irs. Sarah 3Iorris, wife to Mr.
Daniel Morris, who departed this life
April the 16, 1761, in y" 48*'' year of
her age.

Here lyes the Body of
Iluldah Nif'holls, wife to Mr. John
Nicholls, who died .April 16, 1759, in
ye ^gth year of her age.

In memory of
Charles S., who died March 23, 1835,
aged 3 yrs. & 6 mo.
Also of
John A., who died Nov. 15, 1836,
aged 14 mo.
Sons of John W. & Susan Nichols. .

In memory of
3Ir. John Nichols, who died Nov.
2i'S 1801, in the 57"' year of his age.

In memory of
Phehe, relict of Mr. John Nichols.
who died March 3, 1835, M. 82 years.

In Memory of
3Irs. 3Iehetable Nichols, Wife of
Mr. John Nichols, who departed this
life, April 9"', 1785, in y** 32<i year of
her age.

[A Tablet.1
Sacred to the Memory of
Eliilip Nichols, Esq., who departed
this Life May 13"', 1807, in the 82'^
year of his age.
Tears in regret in sympathy we give.
That such superior excellence should die;
But dear to memory wilt thou ever live.
Blest shade whose meed is immortality.

Sir at fie Id Burying-placc.

-^- .^-■■-:

Sacred to the memory of id

PttiLiP Nichols Esq.

who departed this Life

May 13 tK. 1807.

in tke 82** year of Kis age.

Vd^^cf} such .sup^fiQii^exceUence should dtej
Jiiit ^dearto:/7i£m q rywili thou ever liye,
-/^l^lessf; shade ItfhQj^enjieist^ is ijnm ortality. : ^V^

Sacred to the memory of

M^^Mary Nichols Ute Consort
of Philip Nichols Esq.
who departed this life
May 13 ^^ 1811.
In the 78*. year^ of her ag^e. ^

The soul of orig'in divine
God's glorious image freed from day
In heaven's eternal sphere snail shine

A star of day . , i

572

History of Stratford.

Sacred to the memory of
Mrs. 3Iar!/ K'u-hols, la'ie Consort
of Philip Nichols, Esq., who departed
this life, May is'i^, 1811, in the 78*''
year of her age.
The soul of origin divine,
God's glorious image freed from clay.
In Heaven's eternal sphere shall shine,
A star of day.

Here lyes Buried y' Body of
3Irs. Sehcckah Nichols, wife to

Mr. John Nickols, who departed this

life, Sept. la"", 1749, in y® 36**^ year of

her age.

Here lyes y" Body of
Muldah Nichols, Dau"' of Mr. John

& Mrs. Rebeckah Nichols, who died

Sept. 4'^, 1753, in y* 13*'' year of her

age.

Here lyes y" Body of
SaraJi Nichols, Dau*'' of Elijah &

Mrs. Huldah Nichols, who departed

this life June y" 4"', 1753, in y^ 19'^

year of her Age.
William, Nichols, Died July 21,

1837, Aged 82 yrs.

JPhili2) E., his son, Died Sept. 26,
1855, Aged 48 years.

Han a all Nichols, Died Oct. 14,
1855, JE. 69.

Here lyes the Body of
Mrs. Abigail Odell, Wife to Wil-
liam Odeil, who died Jan. 40""

year of her age.*

Here lyes y'' Body of
Mrs. Dehorah Odell, wife of Lieut.
Hezekiah Odell, who departed this
life June 27, 1756, in y 55"' year of
her age.

Here lyes y" Body of
Hldah Odell, Dau"' of Lieut. Heze-
kiah & Mrs. Deborah Odell, who died
June 22', 1756, in y'^ 27^'' year of her
age.

Here lyes buried y** Body of
Mr. John Odell, Who Departed
this life June i"', Ajino Don. 1743,
Aged 77 Years.

Here lyes Buried y'' Body of
Mrs. Sarah Odell, wife to Serg.
John Odell, who died Octob'^ 25"',
A. D. 1743, in y" 79*^^ year of her age.
In memory of
Hainael Odell, Esqr., who Depart-
ed this Lile June the 7"', A. D. 1775,
in the 69"> year of his Age.

* The dates are entirely gone by the falling
off of a part of the slate stone.

In memory of

Mrs. Johannah Odell, Wife of
Mr. Samuel Odell, who departed this
Life June ii"", 1776, in the 37"' year
of her age.

Jusfis Odell, died January y" 29*'',
1767, Aged 3 Days & 4 hours.

Squire Odell, died January y« 29,
1767, Aged 3 Days & 4 months.
The Twins of Mr. Nehemiah

Smith Odell & Mrs. Eunice his Wife.
In memory of

3£iss Temj>erance Odell, who de-
parted this life Octob'' 17, 1794, Aged
27 years 8 months & 3 days.

Too early lost, just in the bloom of youth,

Go noblest patern of exalted truth,

Absolved from earth that peaceful shore ascend

Where love inhabits, love that knows no end.

Here lyes y*^ Body of
Nehemiah, son of Will™ Odell, Dec"^
March y*' 26, 1727, in y'^' 8"^ year of
his age.

Here lyes v* Body of
Nathaniel Odetl, Son of Mr. Wil-
liam & Mrs. Sarah Odell, Who Died

July
age.

15"^, 1746, in y* 3'! year of his

Here Ives y' Body of
Ebenez'' Odell, Son of Mr. William
Odell, Who died Octo'' 7"", 1743, in y*
19"' Year of his age.

In memory of
Mrs. Abigail, Wife of Joel Parish,
who died June i"*, 1777, in her 37*''
year.
Abraham Parrott, died Nov. 16,
1825, JE. 48.

Lord we commit our souls to thee,
Accept the sacred trust.

Lucy Wells, Wife of Abraham Par-
rott, Died Sept. 8. 1856, M. 80.

Revive this nobler part of ours
And watch our sleeping dust.

In memory of
Henri/ O. Parrott, Son of Abraham

& Lucy Parrott, who died July 8, 1826,

aged 13 yrs. 11 mos. & 16 days.
In iriemory of
Manj E. Parrott, daughter of

Abraham & Lucy Parrott, vvho died

Sept. 23, 1826, aged 15 yrs. & 11 mo.
Thomas Parrott, died Dec. 8, 1851,

JE. 58.
Sally, Wife of Thomas Parrott, died

Aug. 17, 1839, JE. 49.

In memory of
Isaac Patchin, who died Feb. 11,

1832, aged 85 yrs.

Sir at field Buryiui^-placc.

573

In memory of
Elijah Feet, wliodied Nov. 26, 1841,
aged 81 years.

In memory of
Anna JPeet, wife of Elijah Peet, who

died June i, 1843, aged 76 years.
This monumeni is sacred to the mem-
ory of
Mrs. Anne JPixlei/, Relict of Mr.
William Pixlev, who died Sept. 20"",

1800, in the 6g*'' year of her age.
Here lyes Buried ye Body of

3£rs. Hannah Porter, Wife to

Ensign John Porter, Who departed

this life Octob'' y« 28"', 1763, in y" 61^'

year of her age.
Nathaniel Porter, son of John &

Lucy Porter, died June 21^^, i8oo, in

the 14*'' year of his age.
In memory of
3rr. Samuel Porter, who departed

this life Sepf 13"", 1795, In the 78^''

year of his Age.

In memory of
Mrs. Abiah Porter, Relict of Mr.

Samuel Porter, who died July g"*,

1801, In the 76"' year of her age.

In memory of
Mrs. Sarah Porter, Wife of Mr.
Samuel Porter, Jun"', who died April
3'^, 1805, In the 25"^ year of her age.
Depository of
Miss Betsey Bayniond, who, in
the bloom of life was snatched from
her friends, and y" companions of her
youth, Jany 14"", A. D. 1792, In the
17*'' year of her age.
31 rs. Ruth Risley, Relict of Mr.
Timothy Risley, of Egg Harbour,
dec^, and Daughter of Mr. David
Wells of this Town, Dec"^, died Jan>'
2^, 1794, aged 36 years.
Here lies entombed the Remains of
The Reverend Robert Jioss, Sarah
Ross, his Wife, and James Merrick
Ross, their Son.

The Reverend Robert Ross, A.M., a native
of Ireland ; in his infancy brought into this
Country, Was sometime a Tutor at ihe College
of New Jersey, where he also received his ed-
ucation ; Afterwards Pastor of the Presbyte-
rian Church in this Society, over which he was
ordained November 28th, 1753, and in which he
labored in word and doctrine, 43 years.

A person who long sustained a high charac-
ter for Christian Literature and general knowl-
edge. In his principles, orthodox ; In his
preaching practical and judicious. He advo-
cated the truths of the Gospel by doctrine and
example, and was, therefore, a pious guide cS:
instructor.

He died Augst. 29, 1799, aged 73
years.

Mrs. Sarah lloss, died the s.ime
day with her luisband, aged 52. And
James 3Ierrivli lioss, 13 days afn-r
his parents, aged 10 years.

O thou gloDinv monarch I
Are these the trophies of thy c(Mi<|ucriii(( arms ?
Nor reverend hoary OKc mix blomning youth.
Nor boasted strength uscupu thy fatal dart !

These seem to speak
With silent horror to my shivering lieart ;
Bid me survey my swift u()proachiMR duoin.
And view the dark retreat which waits my
coming.

This monument is erected by Eiipha-
let Jennings, to the memory of his

Father-in-law and family, iSoi.

Here lyes Buried
James Ross, son af Rev. Robert &
Mrs. Sarah Ross, Born Sept. 12, 1758,
Drowned Sept. 10, 1760.

Sacred to the memory of
Rev(f StejtJlcn Royce, who depart-
ed this life Aug" 3'', 1802, in the 47'''
year of his age.
Here in death's cold embrace this bodv lies.
The soul is gone to mansions in the skies ;
His dust must sleep, his voice be heard no more.
Till the last trump shall sound from shore to

shore.
Then burst the bands of death with sweet sur-
prise.
And in his Saviour's glorious form arise.

Here lyes Buried the Body of

3Ir. Edmund Rowfaud, who de-
parted this life April the 13"', 1769, in
the 41" year of his age.
In memory of

Henry Rowland, who died June
19"', 1775, aged about 84 years.

Erected by Rowland B. Lacey in 1S79.
Here lyes Buried y" Body of

3Irs. Tatnar Rowland, wife to
Mr. Henry Rowland, who died .April
yo 21", A. D. 1737, in y" 42' year of
her age.

Here lyes Buried the Body of

3Ir. Thomas Saiiford, who de-
parted this li/e May y" 20, 1757, in >••
83'^ year of his age.

Here lyes y« Body of

3Irs. Hannah San font, wife to
Mr. Thomas Sanford, who Departed
this life May iS"", 1755, in y 75 year
of her age.

In memory of

Deacon Altel Seclye. who died May
g"", iSio. in the 85"' year of his age.

3Iarcy, wife of Dea. Abel Seelcy, died
March 5, 18 ivy, aged 98.

Hannah, Daughter of Mr. .A.bel <S:
Mrs. Marcy Seely, died Nov' y" 19.
1746, aged I year& 11 months.

574

History of Stratford.

This Stone was erected by Seth Seelye,

Jun. in commemoration of his

late wife,

Abigail Seelye, who died July 8*^,

1800, in the 31" year of her age.

In memor}' of

Ezra Seeley, died Aug. 14, 1827,

aged 81 years.
3Iury, wife of Ezra Seeley, died Aug.
7, 1822, M. 81.

Here lyes Buried y* Body of
Ensign Nathan Seelye, who de-
parted this life April 30, 1766, in y"
52*^ year of his age.

Here heth y" Body of
Eunice, y" wife of Nathan Seelye, who
died June 6"', 1745, in y* 28*'i year of
her Age.
tlennett E., wife of George B. Seeley,

died Jan. 7, 1850, JE. 35.
Mavy E,, iheir daughter, died Dec.
22, 1847, M. 6 yrs. & 2 months.
In Memory of
Nathaniel Seelye, who departed
this life March 27, 1786, in y" 85 year
i>f His Age.

In memory of
Mi-s. Elizabeth Seelye, wife of
Mr. Nathaniel Seelye, who departed
tins life December 9"^, 1781, in y'' 79*
year of Her Age.

In memory of
Lieut. Nathan Seelye, who de-
parted this Life June 24"' 1787, Aged
44 Years wanting 21 days.
In memory of
Mrs. Debovuli Seelye, Relict of
Lieut. Nathan Seel3'e, who died Sept.
22'^, 1811, in the 69"^ year of her age.
In memory of
Polly, wife of Rohwell Seeley, who

died Sept. g, 183S, aged 46 years.
James H., son of Roswell & Polly
Seeley, Died Nov. 23, 1848, M. 19.
In memory of
Euth Seeley, wife of Joseph Seeley,
who died Oct. 8, 1815, aged 29 years.
In memorj' of
Mrs. Betsey Seeley, wife of Mr.
Joseph Seeley, who died Dec. 24,
1824, aged 40 years.

In memory of
Mary E., daughter of Joseph & Ruth
Seeley, who died May ir, 1835, aged
24 years.

Here lyes the Body of
SetJi Seelye, Dec'^ July y" 29*'', 1727,
in y*' i8"i year of His Age.

In Memory of
Deac^^ Seth Seelye, who died May
23'*, 1817, in the 79 yr of his age.
Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.

In Memor}' of

Mrs. Joanna Seelye, Wife of Deac°
Seth Seelye, Who departed this life
Feb''y 25*'', 1797, In the 62'^ year of
her age.

In Memory of

3Iiss Anne Seelye, Daughter of
Deac" Seth & Mrs. Joanna Seelye,
who died June 25'*", 1815, in the 53*^
year of her age.

In memory of
Seth Seeley, who died Nov. 2, 1844,
aged 28 3'rs.
Don't mourn my wife and children so dear,

I am not dead but sleeping here ;

My peace is made, my grave you see.

Prepare for death and follow me.

We know that our redeemer lives,
We trust the promises he gives.
And part in hope to meet above
Where all is joy and all is love.

Seth Seeley, son of Mr. Samuel O.
& Mrs. Sally Seelye, died March 30*'\
1814, aged lb months & 16 days.

Abiah Sherman, Died May 28,
1717, aged 19 years.

Elnathan Sherinan, aged about 8

years old. Who died April 15, 1717.

Here lyes Buried y** Body of

Mr. Amos Shertnatt, Who Depart-
ed this life, Decern'' n*'», 1760, in y*
36"' j^ear of his age.

Sacred to the memory of

Anson Sherman, who died at
Orange Springs, New Jersey, July 19,
1S35, yE. 44 yrs.

Here lyes Buried the Bod}' of

Capt. David Sherman, who de-
parted this life Jan'' y® i Anno Dom"',
1753. in y" 88"' year of his age.

[See opposite.]

Here lyes Buried the Body of
Mrs. Marry Sherman, Wife to
Capt. David Sherman Who Departed
this life Aug. 19 A. D. 1745, in y" 75""
year of her age.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
Lieut. David Sherman, Who De-
parted this life July y* 8"' Anno Domni,
1752, in y" 60 year of His Age.

Here lyes the Body of
Mrs. Dinah Sherman, Wife to
Mr. David Sherman, Dec'' April y"
13"'. 1732, in ye 37'^ Year of Her Age.

Sir at fie Id Bnrying-place.

?/ 5

'(T^^^^-^e

rJiirrej

eman;

—nr^ KKTear of HisiA.^ r

JM^

H ere^eIBune33K£

<;;^;

WlioDepartedthblire
Aafi^*Mi)i74/:iTiy

576

History of Stratford.

Sarah Thompson, i^ Wife of Lieut.

David Sherman, .

Here Ives Buried the Bodv of
Mr. David Sherman, Who was

killed by lightning in the House of
God at public worship on the 28"^ of
July, I77i,iny'^' 35''' Year of His Age.
Here lyes y" Body of

3lrs. Mar If Sherman, Wife to Mr.
David Sherman and Dau"' of Mr.
Stephen & Mrs. Eunice Starling, Who
departed this Life May y 28"', 1765,
in V'' 25'^ Year of Her Age.
This Stone is erected to the memory of

Capf. Darld Sherman, who died
August 22', 1810, in the 54*'' year of
his age.

Also of his son,

David Sherman, who was sup-
posed to be lost on his passage from
Washington in North Carolina to
New York with his whole crew in
the schooner Recovery about the 20""
of Decem''\ 1800, in the 25"^ year of
his age.

In Memory of

Mrs, Hehecra, Wife of Capt. David
Sherman, who died Mar. 4, 1825, aged
70 years.

In Memory of

Isaac Sherman , son of Mr. David
& Mrs. Rebecca Sherman, died March
y' ig"', A. D. 1784, Aged 14 months
& 5 days.

In memory of

31 r. Ehenezer Sherman, who died
Sept. 28"\ 1S19, aged 66 years.

Hervey Sherman, son of Mr. Sterl-
ing & Mrs. Anna Sherman, died July
I*', 1805, aged 2 months & 15 days.
In memory of

3Irs. Jemima Sherman, Relict of
Mr. Nathaniel Sherman, who died
Feb>' 10''', 1806, in the 77*^ year of her
age.

3Iatf7iew Sherutan, born Oct. 21,

A. D., 1645, died — A.D., 1698.

And

Hannah JBalhley, his wife, died
about 1712.

MATTHEW S'HERMAK.

^orq Oct 2r= ^ .D. 16^^

-HIS win:.

^ted about Ji.D. I7j2.

Erected, by l^awlaifd 3 Lacey li^

St rat field Burynig-f^lacc.

577

Here lies tlie bod_v of
Deac^ Seth Sheiumn, Who de-
parted this life, August 7"', 1807, in
ihe 53 year of his age.
Pause and consider where the good man lies,
Mark well his path and follow to the skies.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
3Iv. Andrew Shevivood, Who de-
parted this Life, Nov" 23'', 1767, in
the 47''' Year of His Age.
In Memory of
Anna W., daughter of Charles &
Miranda B. Sherwood, who died July
19, 1:837, JE. 3 mos. & 22 ds.
David Sfierwood, 1763.

This monument is erected to the
memory of
Capt. David Sherwood, who de-
parted this life, July i?"*, 1811. in the
49"*' year of his age.
Tinae was, like me, he life possessest.
And time shall be when 1 shall rest.

Epitraim S. Sltericood, died Nov.
3, 1867, JE. 89 yrs. & 9 mo.
In memory of

Salljf, wife of Ephraim Sherwood, who
died Oct. 25, 1826. aged 44 years.

Sarah, wife of Ephraim S. Sherwood,
died April 4, 1857, yE. 76 vs. & 10 mo.
Here lyes Buried the Body of

Mr. Giirdon Sherwood , who de-
parted this life August y^' 22"'', 1772,
in y" 32'"' year of his age.

Here lyes Buried the Body of

Capt. John Sherivood, who de-
parted this Life Sept. the I7">, 1779,
in y* 74"' year of His Age.

Here lyes y' Body of
Mrs. Mary Sherirood, Wife to
Capt. John Sherwood, Who departed
this Life June y* 12"', 1767, in y* 58""
year of Her Age.

Lucy, Daughter of Mr. Philemon and
Mrs. Hepzibah Sherwood, was horn
June 10, 1795, & died March 27, 1799.

Here Ives the Body of
Capt, 3Iattheiv Sherwood, de-
parted this life y' 26"» of October,
1715, in y* 72 Vear of his age.

Here lyes the Body of
3Irs. Mary Sherwood, wife to
Capt. Matthew Sherwood, aged about
87 years. Dec' December 25, 1730.

Here lyes the Bodv of
Matthew Sherwood, that deccs'
22 year, 1700 [or 1709.]

Here lies the Body of
Nathaniel Sherwood, who died
Octob"^ 2', 17S4, in the 78'*' year of his
age.

In memory of
Mrs. Mercy Shenrood. Wife of
Mr. Nathaniel Sherwood, who died
July 26, 1779, in the 76"' year of her
age.

yhitenion Sherwood, died April
19, 1838, aged 76 years.

Hepsihah, wife of the late Philemon
Sherwood, died Sept. 9. 1848, JE. S2
yrs.

578

History of Stratford.

In memory of
Nathaniel Shevwood, son of Mr.

Philemon and Mrs. Hepzibah Sher-
wood, who was drowned May ii,
1807, in the 20''' 3'ear of his age.
Dear lovely Son and Brother
Vain is the wish that calls thee back again,
Vain is the wish, heaven is thy natal shore ;
There free from sorrow, free from every pain
To thee the ills of life are known no more.

Rebecca J., daughter of Mr. Charles
& Mrs. Lois Sherwood, died Dec. 30,
1818, aged 7 months & 23 days.
Here lyes Buried the Body of

Capt. Samuel SJierwood, Dec^
Nov'' y" 10, Anno Donnii 1732, in the
52 year of His Age.

Here lyes the Body of

Rehekah Shaitvood, Wife to Capt.
Samuel Sharwood, Aged 40 Years.
Dec'i May 16"^, 1 721-2.

Here lyes 3" Body of

3Irs. Mary Shevwood, Widow of
Capt. Samuel Sherwood, Who died
Sept. 18*, 1743, in 3-' 61^' year of her
age.

In memory of

Capt. Samuel Sherivood, who
died Sept. lo"", 1802, in the 71"* j'ear
of his age.

In memory of

A-lltl, relict of Hezekiah Bradley, for-
merly the wife of Capt. Samuel Sher-
wood, who died Dec. 26, 1822, aged
84.

In memory of

Stephen Sherivood, who died July
12, 1837, aged 89 years.

Here lyes the Bod3' of

DocP\ Thomas Sherwood^ who
Dec^ May y" 7"', 1727, in y" 41^'' 3'ear
of his age.

Amanda Louisa, only child of Ste-
phen & Harriet Silliman, who died
Feb. 8, 1838, JE. 17 mo. 8 ds.
In memor3' of

Daniel Silliman, JEsqr., who de-
parted this Life Feb'' 25"', A. D. 1773,
in the 52 Year of his age.
In memory of

3Irs. Sarah Silliman, Wife of Mr.
Daniel Silliman, that departed this
life February 3''' 22'^, A. D. 1773, aged
48 3'ears.

Hannah Silliman, Daug"^ of Na-
thaniel & Hannah Silliman, Dec''
Feb''!' y 18, 1826, Aged 2 years & 10
mo.

Sacred to the niemor3' of
Loretta, Daughter of Capt. Nathaniel
& Mrs. Chloe Silliman, who was born
Sept. 23, 1791, & died Aug*' 24, 1794,
aged 2 3'ears 11 months i da3'.
Here lyes Buried y" Body of
3Irs. Ruth Silliman, Wife to Mr.
Robert Silliman, Who Departed this
life March y'' 15"', 1756, Aged 5S years
I month & 15 Das.
Rhoda Silliman, Daug" of Mr.
Robert & Mrs. Ruth Silliman, Died
April 22'', A. D. 1739, aged 3 years,
9 months & 16 Days.

Here lyes y*" Body of
Ruth Silliman, y' Dau*'' of Robert
& Ruth Silliman, aged 6 years i mo.
& 2 days ; who Died Sept. 23, 1727.
In memor3' of
Capt. Seth Silliman, who died
March 31'', 1808, in the 67*'' year of
his age.

In memory of
3Irs. Lois Silliman, wife to Capt.
Seth Silliman, who Died July 13, 1807,
in the 63'' year of her age.
In memory of
3Ir. Seth Silliman, son of Capt.
Seth & Mrs. Lois Silliman, who died
Dec I'*', 1794, aged 21 years, l month
& 7 days.

In memor3' of
Elisabeth, wife of Seth Silliman, who
died Oct. 10, 1826, aged 54 years.
In memory of
3Ir. Josiah Smith, who departed
this Life August 26"', 1794, Aged 37
years.

In memory of
Leivis, son of Tertullus Stephenson &
Sarah his Wife, who died Sept. 11,
1805, J£. 9 years.

In memory of
Abijah Steiling, JEsqr., who died
March 17"', 1802, in the 57* year of
his age.

In memorA^ of
3Irs. Eunice Sterling, relict of
Abijah Sterling, Esq., who died Feb.
15, 1816, in the 73 3'ear of her age.
George, Son of Mr. David & Mrs.
Deborah Sterling, died March 5"'.
1802, aged I year & 2 days.
Here lyes y^ Bod3' of
3Irs. Hannah Starling, wife to
Mr. Jacob Starling, who departed
this life June y" I4»'', 1756, in y 77*''
year of her age.

Sir at field Buryiiig-/>/acc.

579

Here lyes the Bodj- of
3Iarji Sterling, Daugh"" of Mr.
Jacob & Mrs. Hannah Sterling, who
died March 2"'', Anno Doin. 1737, in
y« 23"^ year of her age.

In memory of
Mr. Sherwood Sterliuf/, who died
Sept. 22'', 1S02, in the 29"* year of his
age.

In memory of
Mr. Stephen Sterlhif/, who depart-
ed this life Oct" 23'', 1797, in the 43
year of his age.

In Memory of
Mr. Stephen Stertinf/, who depart-
ed this life March 19''', 1793, in the
81^' year of his age.

To the memory of

Eunice Sterling, wife of Stephen
Sterling, who died October 8, 1808,
aged 88 years.

Sacred to the memory of

Xeheniiah Strong, Est/., Formerly
Professor of Mathematiks and Nat-
ural Philosophy in Yale College.
He died August 13, 1807, in the 80"'
year of his Age.

Sacred the memory of
Mrs. Marij Strong, late Consort of
Nehemiah Strong, Esqr., formerly
Professor of Mathematics and natural
PhiIosoph3- in Yale College. She
died January 23'', A. D. 1807, Anno
.iEtat sue 76.

Death like an overflowinp stream
Sweeps us away, our life s a dream.

Joseph Strong, died March 23, 1816,
in the 75 year of his age.
In luemory of

Sirs. Comfort Strong, Wife of
Joseph Strong, Esqr., who died Feb.
14"', 1804, in the 65''' year of her age.
In memory of

f'onifort. Wife of Joseph Strong, who

died Sept. 13, 1841, Aged 77 years.

In memory of

Char it ji Strong, Dau" of Mr. Jos-
eph 6t Mrs. Comfort Strong. Who
departed this life August y 5". 1776,
in the 19"" month of her age.

Miss Anna, Daughter of Joseph
Strong, Esqr., and .Mrs. Comfort his
Wife, departed this life July 2', 1798.
In the 19''' Year of her Age.
Rest in sweet slumbers, lovely Sister, rest.
Thy life be copied and thy memory blest.

58o

History of Stratford.

In memory of
Miss Comfort Strong, Daughter
of Joseph Strong, Esqr., and Mrs.
Comfort his wife, who departed this
life March 7'\ 1801, in the 2o"> year
of her age.
Stop friend and drop the pittying tear

O'er these lov'd remains beneath this sod,
Yet think their spirits rest not here
But in the bosom of their God.

In memory of
3Iiss Sarah Strong, Daughter of
Joseph Strong, Esqr. & Mrs. Comfort
Strong, who died Oct" 18"', 1804, in
the 33'^ year of her age.

In memory of
Tryphena^ wife of John Strong, of
Fairfield, who died Sept. 10, i82g,
aged 56 years & 6 months.

In memory of
Aaron Summers, who died Feb.
24, 1826, aged 81 years.

In memor}' of
Huldali Smnmers, wife of Aaron
Summers, who died April 22, 1837,
aged 83 years.

In Memory of
Alice Summers, who died March
26, 1823, aged 62 years.

In memory of

Elnafhan Summers, who died
Dec. 9, 1831, aged 85 years.

ZTl'ania, danghter of Einathan Sum-
mers, died Dec. 7, 1849, Aged 68
years.

Here lyes y*" body of

Enoch Summers, son of Mr. Daniel
and Mrs. Eunice Summers, who de-
parted this life March y'- 12"^, 1759. in
y is"" year of his age.

In memory of
3Ir. Jahez Summers, who died
Aug^' 21*', 1801, aged 80 years & 27
days.

In Memory of
Mrs. Ahiah Summers, who died
Sepf S'^', 1807, in the 84"' year of her
age.

In memory of
3Iarg Summers, who died Jan. 12,
1824, aged 80 years.

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death
of his saints.

In memory of
Mrs. Mar if Summers, who died
April ig"", 1806, in the 25'^ year of
her age.

In memory of
3Iary Summers, wife of Samuel
Summers, who died Feb. 2**, 1811, in
the 66"' year of her age.

In memory of
Miss Hhoda Summers, who died
Aug. 12, 1823, in her 37 year.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
3Ir. Nathan Summers, Who De-
parted this Life Decem"^ y'° 13, 1772,
in y'^ 70"" year of His Age.

Here lyes the Bod}- of
3Irs. Comfort Summers, Wife of
Mr. Nathan Summers, Who departed
this Ife Octob' y 4"", 1763, in y'' 63'^
Year of Her Age.

Here lies the body of
3Irs. Martha Summers, Wife of
Nathan Summers, who died Oct. 26"',
1751, in y 50**^ year of her Age.
In memory of
Samuel Summers, who died June
16"^, 1810, in the 74"' year of his age.
Here lyes y Body of
Mrs. Eunice Summers, Wife of
Mr. Samuel Summers, Who departed
this Life Feb'>' 8"^, 1766, in ye 25"^
Year of Her Age.

In memory of
Capt. Stej)7ien Summers, who
died July 16"', iSii, in the 68"' year
of his age.

Also of his son,
Stephen Su miners, JuW"., Master
of the Brig William, who with his
crew were lost Nov' 1810, aged 34
years.
Nathaniel Thorp, died Jan. 9, 1836,
^.38.

Died Jan. 26, 1826, an
Infant, daughter of Nathaniel and
Mary Ann Thorp, aged 4 mo. & 18
days.

Died Jan. 7, 1828,
Emily, daughter of Nathaniel & Mary

Ann Thorp, aged 11 mo. & 17 days.
Grandison B. Treadwell, died

Sept. 24, 1865, J£. 61 years, 4 Mo.
Muth Ann, his wife, died April 22,

1869, JE. 55 yrs. 2 Mo.
Naomy, daughter to Lieut. Hezekiah
& Mrs. Mehitable Tredwell, who died
A. D., August the 12"', 1744, in the
12"' year of her age.
Elizabeth Treadivell, Deceased
May 10, 1709, In Her 4"' year.

Stmt field Burying-placc.

581

Here Ives the Body of

11. Treadivell, Dessed A pi.

In Her 23 — .

Here lyes the Body of
Saviaef TreadweU, Died Febray

the 2S, 1717.

Here lyes Buried v" Body of
Mi'. Stejthen Trea dwell, Who De-

parted this Life Nov'' 23'', Anno Dom-
ini, 1753, in y 44"' year of His Age.

Here lyes y'' Body of
Thnothjf Tredwell, of this place,

Who deed Sepf about y' 20"', aged

about 37 years, 1720.
S. T. [Probably a Treadwell.]
Sarah Treadwell, Died Dec. 24"',

1709.
H. T., i6gg. [In the Treadwell row

of stones.]

D. T., i6g6. [In Treadwell row.]

E. T. [and] E. [and] M.—B. [In
Treadwell row.]

E. T., 1708. [In the Treadwell row.]

Clark 31. Ttitfle, died December 8,
1867, aged 59 yrs. 3 mos. & 21 days.

Lorintlia, wife of Clark M. Tutile
& daughter of Abel & Ruth Hubbell,
died May 19, 1852, JE. 38.

Here 13'es y"* Body of y"
Hev. Mr. Nathaniel Tucker,

Who died December 20"', 1747, in y
23'^ Year of His Age ; Who was Rec-
tor of the Church of Christ in Con-
necticut Farms in Elizabeth Town in
New Jersey.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
3Ir. Ueuri/ fFakelhtf/, who Died

Janu''>' g'"* Anno Dom"', 1743, in y
Co"" year of his age.

Here lyeth the Body of
.Machel Waklin, Who Departed this

life in the year of Her Age,

March 10, 1708.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
3rr. Zebulon Waketee, who de-
parted this life, July V\ 1767, in y"
55"" year of his age.

Sarah R., Daughter of Rufus and
Mary Way, died July 30, i85g, aged
3 mo. and 9 ds.
Sleep on dear Babe and take thy rest.
\Ve mourn thy absence now but
Soon the trump of God shall sound
And we again Behold thy lovely face.

I n nieinorv of
t'ajd. If illiain Pro/v/rii, who did
Oct" 27"'. 1808, in tlie 75'" vcar of his
age.

In nieMior\' of
Anna Wordin, Wife of Capt. Wil-
liam Word in, who died Aur" 27"".
1805, in the 68"' year o( his aj{c.
Here Ives the Body of
Elizaheth JVel—, [probably Wells]
that deceased in the year 1706.
In niemorv of
Jedediah ll'et/s, wlio died March 9.
1827, aged 75.

In memory of

Jfanuah. Wife of jedediah Wells.

who died June 5, 1838. aged 84 years.

In memory of

Charitf/ Wells, who died Oct. 2.

1841, yE. 61 yts.

Ellen Wells, Wife of Henry Man-
ning, Died Sept. 20, 1867; /E. 83
years 6 mos.

Here lyes Buried y" Body of
3rrs. Liujf Wells, Wile to Mr.
ledediah Wells, who departed this
life Ocf y" 28, A. D. 1751, in y" 23"*
year of her age.

Behold as you pass by
As you are now so once was I,
As I am now so you must be,
Prepare for death and follow me.

Here lyes y" Body of
Mrs. liilth Wells, wife 10 .Mr. David
Wells, who departed this life [uly y'
3', 1766, in ye 35"' year of her age.
In Memory of
3Ir. Stephen Wells, who died Sept.
JI, 1825, aged 70 years.
In memory of
3Irs. 3Iarif, relict of .Mr. Stephen
Wells, who died Sept. 11, 1827, aged
69 years.

Erances Caroline, Daughter of
Robert W. >S: .Amelia Wetinore, died
Aprd i", 1797, .Aged 14 days.
In memory of

3Ir. Benjamin Wheeler, who de-
parted this Life Dec' 26"", 179S, In
the 74"' Year of his .Age.

Ill memorv of
3Irs. 3Iar!i Wheeler. Wife ..1 .Mr.

Benjamin Wheeler, who dej^arted tiiis

lite Aug" 13"', 179S, III the 71" year

of her Age.
Chauneey ff'hee/er, iiicd April — ,

1803, ^E. 52.

582

History of Stratford.

Caroline M., his wife, died May 13,
1853, M. 92.

Here lyes ihe Body of
Isaac IFheeler, that Decesed Apr.
I. 1712, Age 70 yrs.

Here Ives Buried y'' Body of
Doctr. John Wheeler, Who De-
parted this life Sepf 12^''. 1747, in y*-
64*'' year of his Age.

In Memory of
3Ir. John Wheeler, Who died Sept.
12"', 1790, aged 80 years 10 months^
3 days.

In memory of
3Irs. Dorothy Wheeler, Relict of
Mr. John Wheeler, who died Oct. 9"'.
1800, in the 87"" year of her age.

Here lyes y'' Body of
Lucy Wheeler, Daughter of Mr.
Hezekiah & Mrs. Abigail Wheeler,
Who departed this Life Nov. y* 26"',
1768, in y 14* Year of Her Age.

Here lyes Buried y" Body of
yehemiah Wheeler, son of Doct.

John & Mrs. Hannah Wheeler, Who

DeCi Novemb"' ye 28"', Anno 1726, in

ye ^th year of His Age.
Nichols C Wheeler, died Feb. 6,

1859.^. 65.
Polly, wife of Nicholas C. Wheeler,

died Aug. 29, 1853. M. 61.

In memory of
3Iiss Sarah Wheeler, Dau"' of
Amos Wheeler, Esqr., of Brookfield,
who died Aug. 13, 1805, in the 14'^
3'ear of her age.
Stay passenger, this stone demands thy tears,
Here lies a parent's hope of tender years.
Our sorrows now, but late our joy and praise,
I.osl in the mild aurora of her days,
M'hat virtue ziiight have graced her fuller day !
But ah ! the charm just shown, and snatched

away.
Friendship, love, nature; all reclaim in vain,
Heaven when it will refuses its gifts again.

Here lyes Buried the Body of
Mr. Thuothy Wheeler, who died
March 5"', 1752, in y' 62'' year of his
his age.

Here lyes y*^ Body of
Mrs. Ann Wheeler, widow of Mr.
Timothy Wheeler, who departed this
life July the 18"^, 1764, in y*^ 72"^ year
of her age.
Timothy Wheeler, son of Mr. Tim-
othy & Mrs. Grissel Wheeler, was
born Sept. s"* & died Sepf 28"", 1790.

In Memory of
Win. B. Wheeler, who deed Julj>
20, 1842. aged 33 yrs.
Don't mourn my friends and parents dear,
I am not dead, but sleeping here ;
My peace is made, my grave 50U see,
Prepare for death and follow me.

In memory of
Elizabeth, daugh" of Bennet & Susarv
C. Whitney, Died Dec. 29, 1839, JE.
II weeks.

In memory of
Aaron W, Whiting, who died Nov.

3'', 1S33, M. 52 yrs.
Sally, Relict of Aaron W. Whiting,
Died Mar. 2, 1866, M. 85 years, 9 mos.
In memory of
Polly, daughter of Capt. Daniel Wild-
man, formerly of Danburj', who died
June 29, 1814, AL. 17.

The grave of
Abraham Wilson, who died Sept.

27, 1839, aged 62 years.
Etinice, Wile of Abraham Wilson,
died Feb. 28, 1854, JE. 71.
In memory of
3Irs. Eleanor Wilson, Wife of Mr.
Amos Wilson & Daughter to Mr. Ben-
jamin & Mrs. Margaret Lacey, who
departed this life June 23, 1795, aged
27 years 2 months &: 17 days.

In memory of
Ann Wilsmt, who died Dec. 10, 1856,

Aged 60 years.

I am the resurrection and the life ; he that be-
lieveth in me though he were dead yet shall he
live.

In memory of
Mrs. Anna Wilson, who departed
this life Oct. 29, 1844, aged 73 years
& 3 months.

Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.

The Grave of

Bitrr Wilson, who died April 12,

1850, JE. 76 years.
Pnth, Wife of Burr Wilson, deed June
29, 1858, Aged 84 years.
In Memory of
Isaac Wilson, son of Burr & Ruth
Wilson, who died June 28, 1826, aged
29 years.

In memory of
Capt. Daniel Wilson, who died

May 14, 1822, aged 52 vears.
Maria, daughter of Daniel & Anne
Wilson, died May 8, 1850, aged 52
years.
Them also that sleep in Jesus will God bring
with him.

Stmt field Burying-placi

583

The Grave of
Oliver Gould, son of Alfred >S:
Louisa Wilson, who died Feb. 15,
1837, aged 5 mo & 10 days.
Death came like a winter's day
And snatched our lovely babe away.

EtisehUi Gould, Daughter of Alfred
>.\: Louisa Wilson, dec"* Apr. 6, 1852,
vE. 5 years & 25 ds.

The grave of
Fairchild Wilson, who died May
28, 1848, JE. 35 yrs. 5 mos. & 9 ds.
Triumphant in the closing eye

The hope of glory shone ;
Joy breathed in the expiring eye.

To think the race was run.
Thy passing spirit gently fled,

Sustained by grace divine.
O may such grace on us be shed
And make our end like thine.

tfanies Wilson, Died Nov. 24, 1852,

^E. 82 yrs. & 8 Mo.
Sarah, wife of James Wilson, Died
April 12, 1870, JE. 93 yrs. 8 mos.
In memory of
Mr. James Wilson, son of Mr. Rob-
ert & Mrs. Catharine Wilson, who was
seized, Sept. 4"', at Trinity, in New-
foundland, of the illness of which he
died Oct. 12, 1773, in y" 32'' 3'ear of
his age.

Swift as the sun revolves the day

We hasten to the dead,
Slaves to the mind we puff away.

And to the ground we tread,
We steer our course up thro' the skies.

Farewell this barren land.
There, there the Dear wealth of spirits lies
And beckoning Angels stand.

In memory of
Mrs. Sarah Wilson, wife to Mr.
James Wilson, Dau"" of Mr. Daniel
& Mrs. Sarah Morris, who departed
this life March the 29, 1771, in ye 26"'
year of her age.
Come courteous friend, come drop a tear

Over these dry bones & say :
These once were strong as mine appear

And mine must be as they.
Thus should these mouldering members teach

What now our senses learn.
For dust & ashes loudest preach
Man's infinite concern.

In memory of
Mr. John Wilson, Jun^'., Son of

Mr. Robert & Mrs. Catharine Wilson,

who died Oci"^ 20"', A. D. 1776, in y-'

29"" year of his age.

You sacred mourners of a nobler mould
Born for a friend whose dear embraces hold
Beyond all nature's ties you that have known,
Two happy souls made intimately one,
And felt a parting stroke, 'tis you must tell.
The smart twinges & the racks I feel borne.

This soul of mine that dreadful wound has
Off from its side its dearest half is torn,
The rest lies bleeding & but lives to mourn.

In memory of
Justus Wilson, who died b<t.. 14,
1839, aged 73.

In miniory of
Charitji, wife of Justus Wilson, who
died April 23, 1850. in the 77 year of
her age.

raulina Wilson, bom Agsi. 16.

1798, died April 2S, 1879.
Her soul Rests in peace.

liobert Wilson, died Mav 24, 1861.

- in his 74"' year.

Sarah, daughter of Robert & Sarah
Wilson, died May 3. 1859. '" ''cr 24"'
year.

In memory of
Mr. IkOlnrf Wilson, who died May
ii"'. 1813. in the 58"' year of his age.
Happy the man who consecrates his hours
By vig'rous effort, and an hontst aim.
At once he draws the sting of life and death ;
He walks with wisdom and her paths arc peace.

In memory of
Eunice, wife of Robert Wilson, wlio
died Dec. i, 1823. in her 68 year.
The grave of
I*amelia, the wife of Wyllys Lyon
and daughter of Robert & Eunice
Wilson. She died Sept. 1", 1837.
Aged 39 yrs. 2 mo. 12 ds.

In memory <if
3Iiss Eleanor Wilson, who died
Oct. 8, 1S24, aged 29 years.
The Grave of
Sarah, daughter of Robert & Sarali
Wilson. She died Nov. 16, 1835. in
her 7 year.

Thou art gone, bright flower.
Deep was our grief to part

With one so l(>vely, innocent and fair.
Remembrance long will wring the wounded
heart

.\nd hold thy beauteous image ever ttiere.

In memory of
Sarah Wilson, who died Sept. 30.
186S, /E. 68 yrs.'

.Vsleep In Jesus.
In memory of
Sill im an Wilson, who died July 8,
1833. aged 63 yr.s. 5 mo. & 15 ds.

In memor)' of
lijioda, wife of Sillin)an Wilson, who
died April 6, 1825, aged 57 years, 8
months & 2 days.

In memory of
Sutntncrs If'ilson, son of Abraham
& Eunice Wilson, who died Sept. 21.
1S26, aged 22 years.

584

History of Stratford.

In memory of
Winthrop Wilson, who died Feb.
3, 1826, aged 33 years.

Mary, Daughter of Thomas & Eliza-
beth Woodward, died 18"^ Sept. 1S02.

E. H. 1694, A. 8.
J. JP. 88.
E. 16S9.
J?. G. 1703.
B. J. D. S. F
a. J. My 14, 1712.
E. J. June II, 1716.
Jtf. J. Nov. 13, 1712.
D. D. 1688.
3Irs. P. C.
B. B. 1712
1689.
1688.

• 12, 1731-

1706.

S.J.
A.B.
M.B.
O. C.

1689.
1690.

Here lies
DI. J. 1733, D. Jan. 3.
€. J. D. M. J. 1693.
E. J. J. E. 17, 1695.
J. O. 1691, S. 12.
O. J. M. 20, 170 — .

. S.
1717.

Aged
1718.

' Who

died June 17

1696.

[721.

Aged

17.

Who

died Oc. 16

1690.

M.S.

1711.

1707,

Apl.

9-D.

1698.

1700.

1688.
1699.

1690.

1699.

98.

1698.

J).

1699.

Ds. 7,

171

N. 169
91. •
[696.

1689.

1688.

Here

lies

the Body of

Matthew Sherwood.

CHAPTER XIX.

THE BOROUGH OF liKI DGKPORT

ANY plans are devised at the present day
ll^to build cities as a matter of enterprise and
money-making, but Bridgeport grew up
without a plan or in spite of one. Before
the Revolution it was supposed that New
Pasture Point would develop into a citv,
but so far as has been ascertained, during
that war a point of trade was established on
the west side of the harbor, and then or
soon after, was called Newfield. In 1777
the name is first found recorded, but in an
accidental way, as though familiarly used.

In January, 1787, Josiah Lacey, of Strat-
field, Nathan Seeley, of Danbury, and David
Burr, of Fairfield, were appointed a com-
mittee by the Fairfield County Court to lay
out and widen the highways now known as Main street and
State street. The former is designated in the committee's
report, dated April 13, 1787, as "the road at the foot of
Golden Hill," and the latter as "the road from the dwelling-
house of the widow Eunice Hubbell, near the stores at New-
field, to the town line between Stratford and Fairfield. "'
State street, as a highway, was laid out soon after November
9, 1691.'

In May, 1787, the following resolution was passed by the
Connecticut Legislature :

1 State Street laid out.
" Nov. 9, 1691. Samuel Sherman and Robert Cune was chosen and uppointed
by the town to view vi^here it is most convenient (or a highway to pass in y Fair-
field to Paquonnock Harbor and to treat with y " persons through whose land said
highway should pass.

586 History of Stratford.

"Upon report of a committee appointed in May last,
which is now accepted and approved, resolved by this
Assembly that the town of Stratford be and they are hereby
empowered and allowed to keep and maintain a public Ferry
in said town, across the creek or harbour called New Field
Harbour, from the point of land called New Pasture Point,
below Toby's wharf, to the opposite shore of said harbour or
creek, to and on to land of Aaron Hawley, about ten rods
south of said Hawley 's dwelling house, and that two suffi-
cient boats shall be constantly kept, one on each side of said
creek, plying from shore to shore as occasion may require, at
the places aforesaid, during the pleasure of this Assembly, all
subject to the same relations that other Ferries in this State
are by Law subject to."

The western terminus was near the foot of the present Un-
ion street, but the facilities afforded by it were not sufficient to
accommodate the public, and in May, 1791-, the town meeting
of Stratford voted its consent to " build a bridge across the
Pequonnock river nearly opposite Cannon and Lockwood's
wharf," and in the same month the Legislature gave author-
ity to Robert Walker, of Stratford, and others to establish a
lottery to raise the funds necessary to build a bridge across
Newfield harbor, and appointed a committee to view the
circumstances as to what kind of a bridge would be needed,
and what the expense, and report to the next session.

The next autumn the town voted to request the General
Assembly that if a bridge was built by lottery the expense of
maintaining it should not fall upon the town.

Upon the building of this bridge it became necessary to
change the road which passed around the point along the
shore, and a committee of the Legislature made the follow-
ing as a part of their report concerning it :

" The alterations between Newfield Bridge and Benja-
min's Bridge are grounded on the necessity of avoiding or
shunning the road now traveled, under the bank where the
tide flows, which renders it at times impassable, to the det-
riment of travellers; being likewise very crooked, which is
now remedied by a straight line on good ground through
Asa Benjamin's rope walk. Twenty rods of the south part

Brid^i^cport. 587

thereof must be taken up and shifted to the north end,
together with his wheel house, which is thirty feet in Icnj^lh,
and subject him to the necessity of purchasing a h)t of hind
of about seven acres at an extravagant price, beside the
expense of taking up the rope walk."

The committee recommended that three hundred and
thirty dollars damages should be paid to Asa Benjamin bv
the town of Stratford. The road was made, and liberty
given to Stratford to set up a toll-gate at Lottery Bridge in
Newfield, for the support of that and Benjamin's bridge,
which was done in 1799. In 1797 Benjamin's bridge was
voted, by the town, to be "rebuilt and made eighteen feet
wide."

In March, 1800, the town voted to lay out a ** new road
from New Pasture Point to Old Mill road." This was what
is now East Main street.

In the report of the committee fixing the place from
which the ferry should start on the east side of the harbor,
they say, " from a point of land called New Pasture Point
below Toby's wharf." This wharf seems to have been the
same as mentioned in a deed many 3^ears before, namely,
March 17, 1745-6, Ephraim Watkins, of Ulster county, N. V.,
sold to Peter Veiw, of Stratford, " a certain wharf in Pequon-
nock River, it being the lowermost wharf in said river."

A part of the township of Stratford was incorporated, by
special act of the Legislature, in October, 1800, being "con-
stituted and declared to be, from time to time, forever here-
after, one body corporate and politic, in fact and in name, by
the name of * The Warden, Burgesses and Freemen of the Borough
of Bridgeport,' and by that name they and their successors
forever shall and may have perpetual succession."'

The origin of the idea of such an organization is made
known in the following extract from a letter written by Jo-
seph Backus, one of the earliest lawyers in Bridgeport, to
Robert Walker, Esqr., dated September 20, 1822 ; " I say that
I did of my own mere motion project the Borcnigh incorpo-
ration (the first project of the kind in the stale), and drew the

' Stalute Laws of Conn., I. io6.

588 History of Stratford.

charter and then submitted it to the citizens to obtain its
enactment."^

Hence Bridgeport was the first Borough in the State of
Connecticut, and as a forerunner, in its success and prosper-
ity, ha's proved itself worthy of the position thus taken.

Before the charter was granted considerable money had
been raised and expended in improvements in the village,
and it is probable that the fact of improvement suggested
the need of further organization, and hence the proposition
for a borough.

mghways, or streets, additional to those already men-
tioned, were laid out under the direction of the Warden and
Burgesses of Bridgeport, November i6, 1805, Joseph Backus,
Justice of the Peace for Fairfield county, having appointed
Samuel Gregory, Jr., Isaac Booth and Philip Sterling "to
appraise and assess the damages."

ist. The extension of Water street from Wall to a point
about one hundred and fifty feet north of Fairfield avenue.

2d. Fairfield avenue, from Main to Water street.

3d. Wall street, from Main eastwardly to the " Lottery
Bridge," which then stood at the foot of Wall street.

4th. Middle street, from Fairfield avenue to Wall street.

5th. Broad street, from State to John street.

6th. John street, from Broad to Main street.

7th. Bank street, from Main to Broad street, That por-
tion of Bank street, from Main eastward, had been previously
deeded to the borough by Stephen Burroughs, in 1802, and
was known as Morris street.

8th. Court street, from State, southward ninety-nine feet.

At that time there were several other streets or high-
ways in the heart of the borough ; Water street, from Wall
to Baker's pond ; Bank street, from Water to Main street,
and Broad street, south of State to the outer harbor, and
Gold street and Union street.

Baker's Pond was a creek extending westward across
Main street, about where South avenue is now located, but
that portion of Water street below Gilbert was simply the
shore beach by the side of the harbor.

^ Esquire Isaac Sherman's Manuscript book.

Bridgeport. 5X9

The Borough at this time owned three slips, one at the
foot of .State street, one at the foot of Bank street and (jnc
at about the foot of Wall street.

At a borough meeting held May 3, 1808, the street names
as above noted were established.

In 1801 St. John's Church edifice was erected on the
corner of State and Broad streets, and that of the First
Congregational Church was erected in 1803, on the corner
of Broad and Bank streets.

Business Firms of the Borough.

The following is a list of the firms, with the names of the
individuals who composed them, given by Esciuire Isaac
Sherman, from the first settlement of Bridgeport to the first
day of January, 1815, being those of merchants, manufactur-
ers, Boston and New York coasters, and West India traders,
with the names of vessels employed as well as the names of
the owners. The stores and places for doing business were
mostly confined to Water and State streets.

The territory on which the city of Bridgeport now
stands was much of it an open field of good farming land,
and at the close of the Revolution Main and State streets
were laid out so that access was had to the landing place
on Pequonnock river or Newfield harbor; Water street
and the old Golden Hill road having been opened before the
Revolution. The name of the landing was called Newfield
until about the year 1800, when it was changed to Bridgeport.

The first store opened for trade to the inhabitants of
Stratfield, supposed to have been opened by Philip Nichols,
was situated at the head of tide water, near where Noah
Plumb now resides. This store may have been first started
by Richard, the father of Philip Nichols, at about the
year 1730. There were no bridges across the Pequonnock
river until after the Revolution, except that which now
crosses near the said Plumb's house. There was the same
depth of water at the mouth of Bridgeport harbor as there
was all the way up the channel to the wharf belonging 10
this store, and therefore all the vessels came up and did their
loading and unloading at this wharf until near the time of the
Revolutionary War.

590 History of Stratford.

The next store, and the first that was opened within the
limits of the city, was near the foot of State street, built on a
wharf, by Stephen Burroughs, before the Revolution, and
occupied by himself in the grain trade to Boston until about
the year 1800, He also conducted a West India trade, from
this store, before and after the Revolution. He built and
owned several vessels during his active, business life. This
store was occupied during the Revolution by Lieut. William
Hall's guard, consisting of about twenty- four men. This
company of guard commenced service January i, 1777, and
continued until January i, 1782, by authority of the Council
of Safety of the State of Connecticut.

The next store was built by Major Aaron Hawley soon
after the Revolution, which he sold to Daniel Young, who
came from Norwich, and this was the principal store for
groceries and dry goods until the year 1800. It was located
on Water street nearly opposite the foot of Union street,
where Mr. Young was quite successful in business.

Some little time after the Revolution, but before 18 15,
the firm of Abijah Hawley and Company — which consisted
of Abijah, Aaron and Wilson Hawley — carried on the Boston
and West India coasting trade. Their Boston coaster was
called the Three Sisters, and their New York packet was a
sloop called Caroline. They were successful in business for
many years.

Capt. Abraham Hubbell came from Wilton and built a
store and wharf a little north of the foot of State street, about
the year 1790, and carried on the Boston coasting business.
He died in Boston, of the small pox. Richard and Amos
Hubbell, of Stratfield, succeeded him in the Boston and West
India trade, under the firm name of Richard and Amos Hub-
bell, and conducted their trade with a brig, called Julius
Cassar, and had success in their business.

Afterwards, David Minot and Company carried on the
Boston coasting trade from the same store, until about the
year 1810, and were successful. This firm consisted of David
Minot, Stephen Summers and William DeForest. Their
Boston coaster was a standing topsail sloop called Hope.

The next store and wharf north of the foregoing was

Bridgeport. jc^i

built b}^ Stephen Burroughs, jr., about the year 1798 and
owned by him until his death. It was burned at the time of
the great fire in 1845. It was occupied first by the firm ot
Burroughs and DeForest, consisting of Stephen Burroughs.
Jr., and William DeForest, engaged in the Boston coasting
and West India trade, which partnership continued about
ten years, and was ver}^ successful. Thev owned the stand-
ing topsail sloop Volusia, sailed by Capt. Harry Lewis.

After this firm the same business was continued by said
Burroughs until the year 181 5, when it was assumed by
Stephen Burroughs and Isaac Sherman, and thus continued
to 183 1, with success. The names of their Boston coasters
were Volusia, sloop Peacock, schooner Hero and the schooner
Nassau, built by this last firm for a Boston coaster, and after
one year it was sent to Mobile under a charter to some
merchants from New York to St. Stevens, on the Tom-
bigbee river, Capt. Lent M. Hitchcock, master. She en-
tered the port in June, 1817, and was the first American
vessel that entered the port of Mobile after it came into the
possession of the United States. Capt. Hitchcock succeeded
in getting the Nassau up the river within about thirty miles
of St. Stevens, where his cargo, consisting of goods for mer-
chants at that place, was put into lighters and carried to that
place. The schooner was then loaded with red cedar logs
and ash-wood for firewood. She lost two sailors by the
yellow fever on the voyage. This vessel was continued
under the command of Capt. Hitchcock with good success
about four years, as a packet between New York and Mobile,
when the trade became so much increased as to require larger
vessels.

The store and wharf next north of Bank and east of
Water street, was built by Amos Hubbell, and was called
the Yellow store. It was occupied by him after he dissolved
partnership with his brother Richard. Capt. Hubbell built
a ship and a brig near his store and conducted the West India
trade until his death, in 1801.

This store and wharf has been occupied since Capt. Hub-
bell's decease by the firm of DeForest and Hinman. consisting
of William DeForest and Isaac Hinmaii. who conducted

592 * History of Stratford.

the Boston grain business; their coaster being a fore topsail
schooner called the Live Oak, of one hundred tons, built by
this firm in 1804. It was next occupied by the firm of Hubbell
and Sherwood — C. B. Hubbell and Capt. Sherwood — engaged
in the West India trade. These were followed by the firm of
C. B. Hubbell and Daniel Fayreweather, in the dry goods and
the New York and Boston coasting trade. They owned a
New York packet called the Lapwing, and a Boston coaster
called Spartan. Later, C. B. Hubbell and his brother-in-law,
John M. Thompson, from Stratford, conducted an exclusive
dry goods business in the "old yellow store" on the east side
of Water street, up to the year 1842.

The next store and wharf north was owned and occupied
by David Sterling as an iron and grocery store. In 1807 this
property was occupied by the firm of Beach and Sherman —
Doct. James E. Beach and Isaac Sherman — until 1809, when
Capt. Sterling Sherman was added to the firm. They carried
on the grocery and grain business and New York packeting
for several years ; the name of their packet being The Bridge-
port.

The store and wharf next north was owned by John S.
Cannon, occupied by Esquire Isaac Sherman and Capt. John
Brooks, Jr. They ran a packet from the store about four
years — from 1818 to 1822 — called the Mary Ann.

The store and wharf north of this was built by the firm of
Lambert Lockwood and John S. Cannon, and occupied by
them during several years in dry goods and grocery trade,
and running a packet sloop, called the Juba, to New York,
sailed by Capt. John Brooks, Sen.

Another store and wharf north was built by Philip
Nichols, at the foot of Wall street and adjoining the first
bridge across the harbor, called Lottery Bridge, because it
was built by a lottery authorized by the General Assembly in
1791. This bridge was rebuilt further up the harbor, where
it now stands, in 1807. This store was first occupied by
Charles T. Nichols for the sale of dry goods, and for a print-
ing office by Hezekiah Ripley.

The store north of this was built by the firm of Prosper
Whitmore and his brothers Robert and Whitmore,

Bridgeport. 5^3

about the year 1792. They conducted the West India trarlc,
carrying provisions, cattle and horses to the different islands,
and bringing back rum, sugar and molasses. They had a
number of vessels employed, but they failed in business in
1797.

In the year 1805, Josiah, Mordecai and Joseph II. Prindle,
brothers, came from Derby and established in this store the
West India business. They had three vessels employed in
carrying out corn meal, horses and cattle, and bringing back
rum, sugar and molasses. They lost two schooners in the fall
of 1808, in a hurricane, with full cargoes of stock and corn
meal, and all persons on board perished. As the result ot
these losses they failed, and gave up the business.^

Very little business was done in this store after the
Whitmores failed until about the year 1816, when the firm
of Sheldon Smith and William Wright occupied it for con-
ducting the saddle and harness business, which firm was the
continuation of the same business carried on previously in
State street in connection with William Peet, who had retired
from the business.

There were but four firms on the west side of Water
street previous to the year 1815.

* General Prosper Montgomery Wetmore, son of Robert William and
grandson of Rev. Izrahiah Wetmore, was born in that part of Stratford wliich is
now the city of Bridgeport, Feb. 14. 1798. He married Lucy Ann, daughter of
Francis Ogsby, of New York City, and had twelve children, three sons and nine
daughters. He resided in New York, and in 1834 and 5 represented the city in
the Legislature. In 1819 he was commissioned in the State artillery service, and
in 1825 he organized the Seventh Regiment of National Guards and became its
first colonel. This was and is the most famous military regiment in that State.
After some years he was appointed paymaster general of the State militia, which
office he held until 1841. In 1834 he was elected one of the Regents of the
University of the State, which office he held until after 1861. For many years he
was vice-president and secretary of the Chamber of Commerce of New York City.

Mr. Wetmore was one of the founders of the American Art Union, and con-
ducted it as its president for three years with great success. For fifteen years he
devoted his best energies to the management of the New York Institute for the
Deaf and Dumb, of which he was for many years the senior vice-president. He
wrote much for the public papers, and in 1830 he published, in an elegant octavo
volume, "Lexington, with other Fugitive Poems," which is the only collection of
his writings. He did considerable other literary work. He was. however, gener-
ally known as a man of literary influence in society rather than as an author.

594 History of Stratford.

About the year 1794 a firm consisting of Doct. James E.
Beach and David Sterling, built a story and a half wooden
building for a store on the southwest corner of Water and
Bank streets, where they sold dry goods, groceries and med-
icines until the year 1804. The same business was continued
by successive firms until 1815, as described on page 514 of
this work.

Another store, south of the above, fronting on Water
street, was built about the year 1798, by Elijah Burritt and
Ephraim W. Sherman, and occupied by them as a dry goods
and grocery store until about 1817. Oliver and William
Sherman, sons of Ephraim W., succeeded Burritt and Sher-
man and continued in the same store a retail grocery business
for many years.

The next was a small wooden store on the northwest
corner of Water and State streets, built by Elijah Hawley
about the year 1790. It was occupied as a dry goods and
grocery store until 181 5, by Salmon Hubbell.

About the year 1790 a store was built on the corner of
Water and the south side of State street, by Ezra Kirtland
(at that time pronounced Catlin), which was occupied in 1794
by the brothers David and John DeForest as a dry goods
and grocery store, which was robbed and fired, but not
burned. Their clerk, a lad about fourteen years of age, by
the name of Shelton Edwards, was murdered, his skull being
broken by a shoe hammer in three places and his throat cut;
but the perpetrators were never discovered. Owing to this
catastrophe the DeForest brothers failed in business. Hull
and Lyon succeeded them in this store building, in general
trade to the West Indies. They built a ship in 1795, but
failed in 1799.

A small store was built about the year 1791, adjoining
Salmon Hubbell's on the west, fronting south on State street,
which was occupied with dry goods and groceries by Seth
and Silas Sherman until about the year 1800, and after that
continued as a dry goods store by Silas Sherman and his son,
Ira Sherman. Their store was robbed, about the year 1811,
of one thousand dollars worth of dry goods, and no knowl-
edge of the robbers was ever obtained.

.i^^^^^l^-^-^

Bridgeport. 595

Another store was built next above the last named, front-
ing on State street, by David Sherman about the year 1794,
and occupied with dry goods and groceries by David Sher-
man and Nathan Seeley until about 1797. They carried on,
in connection with their store, the West India trade in a
large standing topsail sloop, called Minerva, commanded bv
Capt. Samuel Squires, w^ho on his last voyage for them gam-
bled away the avails of his outward bound cargo at St. Croix
and came home with ballast only, which catastrophe broke
up said firm, and Nathan Seeley removed to Bethel, where
he died an old man about 1850, while David Sherman went
back to his farm at Pequonnock, where he died August 22,
1810.

In the year 1806 Samuel Penney built a store on the
north corner of Water and Bank streets, on land leased from
Mrs. Eleanor Hubbell, which was occupied by Charles Bost-
wick and Samuel C. Kirtland to 181 5 as a dry goods store.

Isaac Sherman, Esq., son of David and Rebecca
(French) Sherman, was born in Stratfield, Sept. 25, 1788.
Very early in life Mr. Sherman compiled and executed quite
artistically a genealogical chart, showing at a glance his
descent on his father's side from Matthew Sherman — son of
Mr. Samuel, the first in Stratford — and Jacob Sterling,
and on his mother's side from Samuel French and John
Edwards, heads of four families of first settlers in Stratfield,
with collateral branches in each generation. When sixteen
years of age he went to sea and followed it with varying suc-
cesses upwards of four years, having been shipwrecked twice
on the New Jersey coast. At this time he had ninety-five
dollars, to which his mother added five, making one hundred
dollars with which to start business. To this his uncle, Dr.
James E. Beach, added nine hundred dollars as a loan, and
with this he started the firm of Beach and Sherman, located
on Water street, in the grocery business, conducted solely
by himself. In this he was so successful that his capital was
doubled by his profits at the end of the first year. Shortly
after, his brother, Capt. Sterling Sherman, was admitted a
partner, with additional capital, and in this form the business

596 History of Stratford.

was continued six years. In December, 18 10, he married
Maria, daughter of Stephen Burroughs, Jr., and purchased
the house, then recently built, on the northeast corner of
Main and Gold streets, which was his only home of married
life for fifty-three years.

In 181 5 he joined his father-in-law in the grocery, grain,
Boston and New York coasting business, which was success-
fully continued to 1831, with the exxeption of an interval of
four 3'ears in partnership with Capt. John Brooks, Jr., in the
same line of business. The firm of Burroughs and Sherman
owned a number of vessels and built the schooner Nassau for
a Boston coaster, which was used four years on mercantile trips
to Mobile and back, under the command of Capt. Lent M.
Hitchcock.

In 1832 Mr. Sherman retired from commercial life but
not from active usefulness. As early as 18 19 he was appointed
justice of the peace and this office he retained after his
retirement from business, until 185 1. He was town clerk
ff5r sixteen years from 1831, and he was town treasurer
twenty-two years, and afterwards for a time he was judge
of Probate and recorder of the city. He served the city in
two or three offices for a short time, but declined further
responsibility in its government.

That he was a most industrious man is amply attested by
voluminous records, original deeds and other conveyances,
wills and documents which are preserved in the archives of
the town and probate, and in the private box of nearly every
property holder of his time in this vicinity.

He made a specialty in procuring the pensions of Revo-
lutionary soldiers for them and their families, being faithful
both to the government and the soldiers, and his list of
pensioned soldiers is probably the most complete of any in
the county.

At nearly the close of his life he was induced to write his
remembrances and the traditionary history of Stratfield and
Bridgeport, and, although he entered upon the undertaking
reluctantly, he produced a valuable manuscript book, with a
map which has been used as the foundation for the map of
Stratfield and the biographical sketches in connection with

^ i; ill

Bridgeport.

597

it, and the record of the mercantile firms in the borough of
Bridgeport from 1790 to 1815. This work, styled "Esquire
Sherman's Recollections," is a valuable contribution to the
history of the locality now comprised in the city of Bridge-
port.

Mr. Sherman from early life gave attention to religious
interests and in 1812 he and his wife united with the First
Congregational church, the church of his fathers. In 1830 he
was elected to the office of deacon, in which he continued in
active service until 1858, and for a long period was the most
active member of the society's committee, being also treas-
urer and clerk of the church. In his own estimation he had
not much religion to speak of, but his life told a truthful story
of " faith and works." So lived and labored Isaac Sherman,
and rested November 23, 1863.

The Jiriilgepovt Bank'' was incorporated, by act of the
General Assembly in October, 1806; which limited the cap-
ital stock to two hundred thousand dollars, and that amount
having been subscribed,^ a meeting of the stockholders was

^ This sketch of this bank is taken from a pamphlet of the same published by
R. B. Lacej-, Esqr., in 1S85.

^ The Bridgeport Bank.
The subscription list was completed b}'^ the following names and shares

Shares.

Elijah Ufford, Stratford - 2

Henry Nevins, Norwich, i

Asa Spaulding, Norwich, 4

Jonathan Sturges, Fairfield i

George Hoyt, Bridgeport, 2

James Grayham, Sandisfield, i

Ezekiel Curtis, Huntington, 2

Jeremiah Day, New Haven, i

James E. Beach, Stratfield, — 4

Samuel Watkinson, Middletown, 5

Elijah Hubbard, Middletown, 3

Levi Curtis, Stratford, i

Nathan Wheeler, Huntington, 2

William Haywood, Stamford, i

Asahel Tuttle, New Haven, i

Townsend & Thompson, New Haven, i

Shares.

Eunice Hall, New Haven,.. i

William Elliott, North Guilford, ... i

Samuel W. Johnson, Stratford, 5

Buckley, DeForest and Co., New

Haven, 3

Buckley and Austin, New Haven,., i

Robert Fairchild, for Stratford, 6

James Lewis, New London, i

Samuel Kirtland and Co., Bridgeport, 2

Isaac Thompson, New London, i

Abel Gregory, New Fairfield, 2

Foot and Nichols, Bridgeport, i

Elijah Boardman, New Milford 4

Elijah Waterman, Bridgeport,. i

Thomas Wells, New Milford, i

Lambert Lockwood, Bridgeport, 3

598

History of Stratford.

held Feb. 3, 1807, at which Joseph Goodwin was chosen
chairman, and the following persons were elected directors :
Isaac Bronson, Birdsey Norton, Samuel W. Johnson, John S.
Cannon, Salmon Hubbell, Lambert Lockwood, David Minot,
Jessup Wakeman, and Ebenezer Jessup.

At a meeting of the directors of the Bridgeport Bank
convened at the dwelling house of Ezra Gregory, inn-keeper
in said Bridgeport, on the 3d of February, 1807, Isaac Bron-
son was, upon ballot, unanimously elected president of the
bank; and in the same month a committee was appointed to
purchase a lot and contract for a building; and the banking
house was erected in 1808.

George Hoyt was elected cashier in March, 1807, with a
salary of seven hundred dollars per annum, with the privilege
of the banking-house to live in, which was soon after made
one thousand, he paying for a clerk's assistance.

In 1810, in order to "prevent any collision of interest
between the Derby and Bridgeport banks," Isaac Bronson
was appointed a committee to make arrangements to that
effect with the former bank.

Shares.

John S. Cannon, Bridgeport, n

William Peet, Bridgeport g

Isaac Hinman, Bridgeport 22

Salmon Hubbell, Bridgeport, 8

John and Chauncey Deming, Farm-

ington, - 7

Hezekiah Balding, New Haven, _.. i

William Brintnall, New Haven, 2

Seth P. Staples, New Haven i

Abijah Hawley, Bridgeport,... i

Daniel Nash, Norwalk, i

Stephen Boroughs, Bridgeport, i

Ashbel Baldwin, Stratford, i

Solomon Cowles, Farmington, i

Zenas Covvles, Farmington, 4

Elijah Cowles and Co., Farmington, 9

David Judson, Fairfield i

Caleb Atwater, Wallingford,.. 3

Reuben S. Norton, Farmington, 1

Humphrey and Whitney, New York, 5

Shares.

Henry Ward, New Haven, 4

Matthew Marvin, Wilton, 3

David Brooks, Stratford, i

Ezra Gregory, Bridgeport, i

William Batiell, Torrington, i

Gershom Fenn, New Haven __ i

Perry, Mill River, _. 13

Robert Fairchild, Stratford i

Dyer While, New Haven, 3

Ephraim J. Wilcoxson, Stratford, i

Samuel Smedley, Fairfield, 12

Samuel Ward, Jr., New York, 2

Joseph Goodwin, Lenox, .. 61

Isaac Hinman and Co., Bridgeport,. 16
Shipman, Dennison and Co., New

Haven, .' .. 11

Birdsey Norton and Co., Goshen, __ 37

Nathaniel Prime, New York, 22

Isaac Bronson and Co., Greenfield, 656

Total,--- r,ooo

Bridgeport. 599

On January 24, 181 1, in view of an apprehension of war,
the bank passed the following vote: "That in the present
critical situation of affairs it becomes absolutely necessary
that security more than profit should be considered, and
feeling that our funds in New York should be placed in
the best possible situation of security, we therefore do au-
thorize I. Bronson, Esq., to secure what sums may be due
and owing to the bank in the city of New York, in any way
he may judge proper for the benefit of this institution, and
use his best discretion in all other matters concerning the
interest of the bank to effect the purposes aforesaid."

Mr. Bronson continued in the direction of the bank for
twenty-five years. He was president for t"he whole period,
except an interval of four years, from 1823 to 1827, when he
gave place to John S. Cannon, returning to the position on
Mr. Cannon's death in 1827. Capt. George Hoyt continued
cashier for eighteen years, until his death in 1825, when he
was succeeded by his son, Josiah S. Hoyt, for seven years.
During this period the bank prospered, outrode the storms of
war and financial crises without the suspension of specie pay-
ments, and paid regular, and some large, extra dividends.
To do this it went outside of Bridgeport and its vicinity to
make loans. In 1832 Mr. Bronson sold his stock and retired
from all connection with the bank.

On November 7, 1S32, Ebenezer Jessup, of Saugatuck,
was elected president, and a month later, the health of Josiah
S. Hoyt having become impaired, Charles Hill, of Catskill,
N. Y., was elected cashier. Mr. Jessup remained president
until 1838, when Sylvanus Sterling, of Bridgeport, was elected
president and George Burroughs cashier. Several changes
were made in the amount of capital, reducing it to $110,000,
but in 1838 it was again increased and made $210,000.

Sherman Hartwell was elected president July 4, 1849,
and continued in the office until July 6, 1869, when he posi-
tively declined a reelection. During this period, in 1854-5,
the banking house was repaired, another story added, and the
exterior improved, at a total cost of $6,000. At his retirement
from the presidency of the bank, Mr, Hartwell had served it
thirty-six years as a director, and twenty years as president;

6oo History of Stratford.

and the directors passed the following : "■Resolved, That the
thanks of this board are due, and are hereby tendered to Sher-
man Hartvvell for efficient and valuable services as president
of this bank for the last twenty years, and as evidence of the
prosperity of the bank it may be stated that it has during the
said twenty years paid its stockholders in dividends the sum
of $430,700, on a capital of $212,000, and increased its surplus
$40,000." Mr. Hartwell survived in quiet retirement until
January 16, 1876, when he passed away in the fulness of years,
esteemed and honored.

JSIv, Munson Haivley was elected president July 6,
1869, to fill the place made vacant by the retirement of Mr.
Hartwell, and proved a worthy successor. His administra-
tion for more than sixteen years has been economical, efficient
and successful, for there has been paid during this period the
sum of $399,320 in dividends, and the surplus increased about
$40,000.

George Siirroiiffhs, the veteran cashier, continued his
faithful service nearly four years longer, when his labor
closed suddenly as he entered the banking house on the
morning of March 12, 1872, having served as cashier nearly
twenty-five years and as director ten years. The following
was passed by the board of directors : " Whereas, by the
death of our highly esteemed friend and associate, Mr.
George Burroughs, who for nearly thirty-five years faith-
fully performed his duties as cashier of this bank, we feel
that this institution has suffered an almost irreparable loss.
Always at his post of duty, kind-hearted and obliging in his
business transactions, honest and true in all his dealings, we
most sincerely regret his loss, not only to this institution,
but to the community, and we extend our united sympathy
to his afflicted family in their sad bereavement which a wise
Providence has called them to sustain. Resolved, That as a
token of our regard for our late esteemed friend, the Board
of Directors of this bank will attend his funeral in a body."

At the death of Mr. Burroughs Mr. Frank N. Benham
was appointed cashier and has served faithfully and accepta-
bly for twelve years, and for the last three )'ears as a director.

Bridgeport. 60 1

The list of directors during the existence of the bank,
numbers eighty-five names.

Of the present board of directors, only one, Mr. R. B.
Lacey, served under the old system, he having first entered
the board in 1857, and none of the rest earlier than 1869.
The names of the present board are: Munson Hawley,
Thomas B. Bartram, Plumb N. Fairchild, Carlos Curtis,
Thomas B. DeForest, Rowland B. Lacey, David M. Read,
John M. Wheeler, Frank N. Bartram.

The bank has had seven presidents: Isaac Bronson, who
served twenty-one years; John S. Cannon, four years; Eben-
ezer Jessup, five years; Sylvanus Sterling, eleven years;
Hanford Lyon, one year; Sherman Hartwell, twenty years;
Munson Hawley, sixteen years; and it has had five cashiers;
George Hoyt, eighteen years; Josiah S. Hoyt, seven years;
Charles Hill, five years ; George Burroughs, thirty-five years ;
Frank N. Benham, twelve years.

Doct, Isaac Sronson, son of Isaac and Mary (Brockett)
Bronson, was born in Middlebury, Conn., March 10, 1760.
After improving the privileges of the common schools and
studying medicine with Doct. Lemuel Hopkins, of Hartford,
he entered the Revolutionary army as a junior surgeon, Nov.
14, 1779, in the Connecticut line under the immediate com-
mand of General Washington, and served efficiently through
the war. He then made a voyage to India, traveled in Eu-
rope, returned to the United States about 1789, and soon
after married Anna, daughter of Thomas Olcott, of Water-
bury, but previously of Stratford. About the year 1692 he
settled in Philadelphia, where he remained two years, during
which that city was visited with a severe yellow fever epi-
demic, in which the doctor served very successfully as a
physician, and it has been currently reported that he there
accumulated property which was the foundation of his subse-
quent financial success.

After this, for a time, he pursued the business of a banker
in New York City. In 1796 he purchased the property of
Timothy Dwight, D.D., on Greenfield Hill, Conn., intending
it for a summer residence, but it became his settled habita-
tion, and while residing there in 1807 he became the presi-

6o2 History of Stratford.

dent of the Bridgeport bank. In this office he continued —
with an interval of four years — a faithful and honored officer
until 1832, when he retired. He died at his home on Green-
field Hill May 19, 1839, "^ his 80th year.

Doctor Bronson's banking career, extending, as it did,
through two great financial crises — that of 1812 and 1836 and
7 — was one of extensive influence as well as financial success.
The papers of Hon. Roger Minot Sherman show that there
was much conference between himself and Doctor Bronson
in regard to financial questions, and there is good reason to
believe that the independent treasury-system of the United
States, which succeeded the breakdown of the United States
Bank under the administration of General Jackson, was form-
ulated after and mainly in accordance with the suggestions
of these masterly minds.

Doctor Bronson gave much attention to his farm at
Greenfield Hill, supervising personally the smallest matters,
as well as the greatest, of improvement about his home, which
still exhibits his genius, skill and labor.

John S. Cannon came to Bridgeport from Norwalk
about 1790, a merchant of some wealth. His residence was
on the site of the Waller Building, corner of Water street
and Fairfield avenue, and was associated in business with
Lambert Lockwood. They built their store and wharf on
the present site of Baruch Ellis's stone yard about 1792, and
conducted a general trade in dry goods and groceries, and
run a regular packet to New York, the vessel being the sloop
Juba, sailed by Capt. John Brooks, Sen. Mr. Cannon owned
the next store south of the above, which he rented to Isaac
Sherman and John Brooks, Jr., and others.

Lambert Lochwood came to Bridgeport from Wilton,
Conn., about 1790, and had his residence on the north side of
State street, on the site of the brick block between the houses
of the late Doct. David H. Nash and Doct. Robert Hubbard.
In personal appearance he was possessed of a full stature,
fine presence and affable manner.

He w^as a public spirited man, connected with the Con-
gregational church. His house, more than any other, was a

Bridgeport. 603

home for visiting clergymen in his time. His son, Roe
Lockwood, was a well known bookseller of New York.
Another of his sons, the Rev. Peter Lockwood, was a useful
Presbyterian minister. In later life he was connected with
books and stationery and printing, having the late David
Sterling, Jr., as an assistant or partner. He was justice of
the peace and grand juryman and sometimes was called upon
to quell disturbances.

On one occasion Mr. Lockwood made a social evening
call upon John S. Cannon, wearing a new broad cloth coat.
When about to leave for home it was found to be raininer
severely. Mr. Lockwood remarked that he did not like to
wet his new coat and inquired of Mr. Cannon if he had an old
coat he could wear instead of his own. Mr. Cannon said he
had, and soon brought it forth. This Mr. Lockwood put on
and departed for home, leaving his new coat. Soon after
reaching home he heard a rap at his door, and behold Mr.
Cannon appeared wearing Mr. Lockwood's coat, drenched by
another shower that had overtaken him on the way, to make
the exchange before he should sleep.

Salmon Hiibhell came to Bridgeport, also from Wilton,
about 1790, and had his residence on the bluff, fronting Water
street, south of and adjoining Mr. Cannon; the house having
been taken down about 1873. He was a captain and pay-
master in the Continental army, and participated in the
taking of Stony Point fort under General Wayne. He wrote
a peculiarly elegant hand, which may be seen on the early
borough and town records. He conducted a dry goods and
grocery store on the northwest corner of Water and State
streets more than twenty years, to 18 15. He was the first
town clerk of Bridgeport, to which office he was elected
several years from 1820. He was brother of Capt. Thaddeus
Hubbell.

Isaac Hititnan came from Trumbull. He first resided
on the corner of Main and Bank streets and afterwards on the
corner of Wall and Water streets, which later became the
Washington Hotel and was kept for many years by his son,
the well known Capt. Munson Hinman. He kept a store on

6o4 History of Stratford.

the south side of State street, but on the erection of the new
block — now old — on the north side of State street, between
the post office and Main street, he removed to it and opened a
distinctively dry goods store. Richard Hyde married one of
his daughters, and was associated with and succeeded him in
the business. Mr. Hinman died in middle life. Mr. Hyde
was prominently identified with the dry goods trade many
years.

William JPeet was a successful business man of the old
school. His residence was a large old fashioned house with
two front rooms with a wide hall extending from the front to
the rear, standing on the site of the present post office build-
ing, fronting on State street. Though in later years it was
skirted with stores on each side, yet with its liberal piazza
and front yard filled with shrubbery, it was very noticeable
and attractive. He was a tanner and currier, and his yard
was located on Broad street between Cannon and John
streets. The remains of the old vats were but recently taken
from the site of Messrs. Hincks and Johnson's new factory.
In connection with Sheldon Smith, as Peet and Smith, he
conducted the manufacture and sale of saddlery in and over
the store next east of and adjoining his residence on State
street. This business was enlarged by adding to the firm
William Wright, who opened a store in Charleston, S. C,
soon after the close of the war of 1812, under the name of
Peet, Smith and Company. The business was successful and
although he retired from it early, it added much to Mr. Peet's
wealth.

He reared an excellent famil}' ; among them was an
Episcopal clergyman and two . successful business men in
New York City, while another followed the business of his
father in this city. One daughter married William Wright,
above mentioned, who, after a successful business career,
became governor of New Jersey and United States senator
from that state; and another married the late Hon. Henry
K. Harral, who also followed the saddlery business in
Charleston, S. C, New York city, and Bridgeport, with
great success. Mr. Peet survived most of his associates and
came to his death full of years.

Bridgeport. 605

CapU David 31inot was a man of wealth for his time.
His business firm consisted of David Minol. Stephen Summers
and William DeForest. They carried on the Boston coasting
trade successfully for a number of years previous to 1810, in
the store located a little north of the foot of State street,
which had been previously occupied by Richard and Amos
Hubbell. He was quite a conspicuous person in the com-
munity, ranking-, probably, next to John S. Cannon. They
were leaders in public matters, and each retained his connec-
tion with the bank until his death. Mr. Minot's residence
was on State street identical with the green on the east side
of the present court-house. He died in 1830.

Samuel William Johnson^ of Stratford, was the son
of Judge Wm. Samuel Johnson and grandson of Dr. Samuel
Johnson, and was a prominent citizen of the county and
State. He served the bank eight 3^ears, frequently as presi-
dent pro tcin. of the meetings of the board of directors, the
relation ceasing in 18 14.

JEzra Greffory, Hen,, came to Bridgeport from Wilton
in 1796. His house, situated on the west side of Main street
at the head of Wall, was occupied by him for many years
as a public house or tavern. He was one of the original
stockholders of the bank and all the early meetings of the
stockholders and board of directors were held at his house,
until the bank building was completed. He was a director
of the bank from 1817 to 1821. His house was burned with
many others in the great fire in 1845. He was deputy sheriff
and a prominent citizen, as was also his son, Ezra, Jr., in 1840,
and many years after. His daughter married Jesse Sterling,
from Trumbull, a successful dry goods merchant, postmaster,
and in the later years of his life, treasurer of the Housatonic
Railroad Company.

Son, Elijali Hoardtnan was a prominent citizen and
merchant of New Milford. He was a grandson of the Rev.
Daniel and Jerusha (Sherman) Boardman and therefore was a
great grandson of Dea. David Sherman, of Stratfield. His
business career extended from 1782 to 1819, and was very
successful. In 1795 he became leading member of the Con-

6o6 Histo?y of Stratford.

necticut Land Company, and therefore one of the purchasers
of the Western Reserve, now comprising a considerable
portion of the northern part of the State of Ohio. He
attended in person to the survey and sale of a large propor-
tion of the section divided to his company, and derived con-
siderable income from the sale. He was a representative in
his own State and in the upper house or senate from 1818 to
1 82 1, and was a representative in the 17th congress, and hav-
ing been elected to the United States senate for six years,
was a member of that body at his decease, which occurred in
Ohio during one of his visits there in 1823. He was a director
of this bank from 1808 to 1817-18. His personal appearance
was unusually elegant, affable and refined. His business
talents were uncommonly good and his constancy in their
use was rarely surpassed. The late Hon. William W. Board-
man, of New Haven, was his son.

Capt. George Hoyt was a native of Bridgeport. He
owned and resided in a house built by his father before the
Revolution on the high bluff on the west side of Water street,
about two hundred feet south of State street. In his earlier
days he was a seaman in the employ of John S. Cannon or
his firm. His fine business qualities were well known and at
the organization of the Bridgeport bank he was elected the
first cashier, which position he filled with great acceptance
eighteen years, until his death in July, 1825.

Abijah Hawley was a representative of one of the old-
est, most numerous and prominent families in the early set-
tlement of Stratford and Stratfield. The Hawley family was
among the most wealthy at the start, and as they branched
out from the old homestead they were everywhere thrifty,
acquiring large tracts of land, and in Bridgeport they were
among the first for adventure and successful trade. "As rich
as the Hawley 's," was a familiar phrase among the people
seventy years ago. The rule had its exceptions, but was so
applicable as to become a common saying. Isaac Sherman,
Esq., speaks as follows of the firm of Abijah Hawley and
Company: "It was composed of Abijah, Aaron and Wilson
Hawley. They carried on the Boston coasting grain business

UNITED BANK BUILDING, ERECTED IN 1884 AND 85.

Bridgeport. 607

and West India trade. Their coaster was called the Three
Sisters, probably from the wives of the partners, who were
all daughters of Capt. Stephen Summers; and their New
York packet was the sloop Caroline, and they were very
successful for many years. Their store and wharf were on
Water street a little south of State street, the grain elevator
of Mr. John Hurd occup3nng about the same site. Abijah
Hawlev was the sixth generation from Joseph Hawley, the
first settler of the name in Stratford, through Samuel, of
Stratford ; Dea. Thomas, Capt. Ezra and Thomas, of Strat-
field. The last was the father of Abijah, whose residence
was on the west side of Water street corner of Thomas.
The following were children of Abijah and Polly (Summers)
Hawley : George, Abijah, Thomas, Emeline and Munson.
The first two followed the water for many years. Thomas
was a merchant, the founder of the well known hardware
house of T. Hawley and Company, Emeline married Dea.
George Sterling, and Munson, who has been a successful
merchant, and who in later years has given his attention to
banking, has been for the last sixteen and a half years the
efficient president of this bank, and now at the age ot more
than four score years it may be said of him, that his eye (to
business) has not become dimmed, nor his natural force abated.
The United Bank Building', erected in 1885, by the
Bridgeport National Bank and the City Savings Bank, sit-
uated on the northeast corner of Main and Bank streets, is
constructed with granite copings and steps, with rock-faced
Springfield brown stone extending to the height of the second
story on the front and one story on the side. Above, the
materials are Trenton pressed brick with brown stone trim-
mings. The main entrance is situated in the center of the
building, on Main street, and the banking room floor is
reached through a commodious vestibule by a broad flight of
slate steps. The side walls of vestibule and main halls are
composed of enamelled brick laid in neat geometrical patterns.
The floor of the hall on the first floor and of the business por-
tion of both banking rooms is of white marble tiles. There is
a commodious staircase leading to the second floor, composed
entirely of iron and slate.

6o8 History of Stratford,

The building contains three stores, accommodations for
two banks, and thirteen offices ; it has also ample storage
room on the third floor, which is reached by a circular iron
staircase. The structure is heated throughout by steam and
the best of plumbing appliances have been introduced. The
store and office floors are finished in pine; the banking room
floors and halls in cherry in the natural wood. The vaults
in the banking rooms are among the best ever built in this
country and are furnished with the latest improvements of all
kinds; their exterior surfaces are built of enamelled brick in
the same manner as the main halls.

The building was designed for strength, convenience and
utility ; no effort was made for elaborate or ornate architect-
ural display, but a general appearance of solidity and strength
was aimed at: it was the aim of the designer to indicate ex-
teriorly the purpose for which the interior was to be used.
The style of architecture adopted was a modified Gothic in
combination with heavy Romanesque arches; the architect
relied more upon the contrasting colors of the materials used
and the grouping of the entrances and windows for his effects
than upon elaborate detail. He aimed not only to obtain
pleasant and commodious quarters for the banks, at an easily
accessible height above the sidewalk level, but at the same
time to utilize the space underneath the banks for business
purposes. The problem thus presented was solved by the
introduction of stores with areas in front. This led to much
adverse criticism while the building was being constructed,
but the ready rental of the stores and their popularity is the
best and most conclusive argument that the bank officials
acted wisely in adopting this mode of construction.

Shipping and Shipmasters.

As early as 1760 the mouth of the Pequonnock river was
called the harbor, but previously it had been called the
Pequonnock river, showing that not very remote from that
date vessels began to come up the river to load and unload.
Previous to the death of Richard Nichols in 1756, the ship-
ping business — whatever it was — was done at what is called
the Berkshire Pond. Not loner after this a store and wharf

Bridgeport. 609

were built by Philip Nichols at the south end of Pembroke
street, or the Point, and about the same time or soon after —
a little before the Revolution — loading and unloading vessels
began on the west side of the harbor, and this locality as early
as 1777, was called Newfield, and the mouth of the river
Newfield Harbor/

The beginning of shipyards in the Pequonnock river
must date about 1720 and continued to enlarge in propor-
tions until after 1800; and the result was that many of the
farmers held property in vessels and their sons learned to be
sailors and commanders of these and other vessels. Before
the Revolution, but especially after it, trade with the West
Indies was of commanding proportions, and when Bridgeport
began to spread out as a seaport town just after the 3'ear
1800, the coast trade to Boston, New York and Baltimore
and the West Indies was largely the cause of the rapid
growth of the borough. " The West India trade was a very
considerable interest quite early and continued to be prose-
cuted as late as 1840. The parish mill site was on Pequonnock
river at what is known as Pequonnock Mills. The West
India trade made brisk times for the coopers and millers, and
led to the construction of the Yellow Mill and Berkshire
dams and mills, using tide water as a power."

" The success of the whaling business in eastern ports led
to investments in that business here.'"

The JBridge2)ort Whaling Coynpany was incorpo-
rated in May, 1833, with a capital stock of one hundred
thousand dollars ; the following persons being named as
corporators: Eben Fairchild, Daniel Tomlinson, David P.
Minot, Samuel F. Hurd and David Perry.* This company
owned and fitted the following ships — the Harvest, Hamilton,
Atlantic and Steiglitz.

A company was also formed for fishing on the banks of

* Historical Notes of Major Wm. B. Hincks.

■" Report of Bridgeport Board of Trade for 1878, p. 32.

* Conn. Private Acts, First Series, i. 590.

6io ' History of Stratford.

New Foundland, in charge of Captain E. Doane, but the com
pany was not particularly successful."

The Bridffeport Hteatriboat Company was incorpo-
rated in May, 1824; the persons named being: Daniel Ster-
ling, Enoch Foote, Ransom C. Canfield, Isaac Sherman,
Thomas C. Wordin and Wilson Hawley, with a capital stock
not to exceed thirty thousand dollars. Wilson Hawley,
Daniel Sterling, Thomas C. Wordin, Reuben Tweedy and
Isaac Sherman were the first directors of this company.'"

Only two companies had been previously incorporated
in this State for the purpose of navigation by steam ; the first
was secured in October, 1818, and named "The Connecticut
Steamboat Company ;" the second, The Connecticut River
Steamboat Company, in May, 1823.

^ Log-Book of Ship Atlantic

On her third voyage to the south Atlantic and Indian Oceans, whaling, during the

years 1837-8 and 9; having departed from Bridgeport, Conn., on July 22d, 1837,

returning on April 12th, 1839.

Master, Wm. Post.

1st Mate, Job Babcock.

2d " John Lewis.

3d " Edward Howel.

Recapitulation.
The voyage has occupied 629 days. The ship has been at sea 567 days.
According to calculations made at the end of each day the whole distance sailed
is 46,640 miles. The whole number of whales seen, making no allowance for the
same ones seen at different times, is 901, of which 165 are sperm. The total num-
ber struck is 75. The number of whales taken, including one found dead, is 34,
of which ten were females. The whole number of pleasant days (tolerable whaling
weather), is 462, as may be seen by the following table, where the pleasant or
whaling days, whales seen, whales struck, and whales obtained, are arranged
against the several days of the week.

Pleasant. Whales seen. Whales struck. Whales obtained.

Sundays,. 70 170 15 9

Mondays, 64 181 6 4

Tuesdays -66 114 13 6

Wednesdays 6g 127 iS 5

Thursdays, 65 123 10 4

Fridays, 65 86 85

Saturdays 63 106 5 i

462 907 75 34

'" Conn. Private Acts, First Series, ii. 1106.

Bridgeport. 6 1 1

The following- charters were grnnted by the Connecticut
General Assembly with and following that of Bridgeport :

The Bridgeport Steamboat Company, May, 1824.

The Hartford Steamboat Company, May, 1824.

The New Haven Steamboat Company, May, 1824.

The Norwalk and New York Steamboat Association, May,
1824.

The Ousatonic Steamboat Company, May, 1825. This com-
pany was to run steamboats between Derby and New
York, and their boat "Ousatonic" was running on that
line the next year.

The Stamford Steamboat Company, May, 1825.

The Steam Navigation Company, May, 1825.

By a letter to Roger M. Sherman dated January 8, 1838,
it is seen that the boat named Fairfield was running on the
Bridgeport line, but had then discontinued her trips for the
winter. The steamboat Nimrod, Captain John Brooks, was
on this line quite a number of years, and is still remembered
by many individuals.

The number of men who " followed the sea" from Bridge-
port as well as Stratford, would make a long list, and com-
prise many who were in their day well known to the mer-
chants of New York. A few illustrations are here sfiven at
length as affording more interest than the list, if that could
be obtained.

The grave-stone inscriptions of this region reveal the sad
fate of many who sailed from these ports never to return.
The probate records show that fathers and brothers, remem-
bering the perils of the great deep, recorded their wills as a
settlement of all earthly estates, before passing out of these
harbors on their long journeys.

In addition to the illustrations here following, a list of
sea captains, from fifty to one hundred, who were raised in
the territory of old Stratford, might be obtained, who sailed,
not as far away, but by many perils, successes and disasters,
like those whose records are given.

6i2 History of Stratford.

Capt. E^ekiel Hnhhell^^ of Bridgeport, son of John
and Eleanor (Burr) Hubbell, was born in Fairfield, Conn.,
April 5, 1768. After enjoying all the advantages of an early
education, at the age of fourteen he was employed as clerk
on board of vessels belonging to Richard and Amos Hubbell,
well-known merchants trading between Newfield (Bridgeport)
and the West Indies. Soon manifesting great confidence in
himself, he not only took charge of the cargo and business of
the concern, but also the command of the vessel as a merchant
navigator, called in those days captain and supercargo, both
positions being filled by the same person. In 1797, owing to
his industry and perseverance, he became managing owner of
two fine vessels, the brig Caroline and the ship Sally and
Betsey, and became also interested in other vessels of smaller
capacity. Next he took command of the armed ship Citizen,
of New York city, which carried sixteen guns and was
manned with a crew of fifty men, and in her he made several
voyages to Havana. The New York "Commercial Adver-
tiser" of July 15, 1798, says: "Ship Citizen, Hubbell, master,
off Newfield, Thursday last, via Halafax, where she had been
taken by an English cruiser, and after a close examination of
the crew and papers, was released." The same paper of
December 6, 1798, says: "This day came up the armed ship
Citizen, Capt. E. Hubbell, sixteen guns, nineteen days from
Havana. Came out with eighteen vessels under convoy, and
parted with them on the coast. Left a French privateer
lying off Havana, but she did not seem inclined to come
out. Flour, $6>^ ; sugars, 6' to 7' cwt. Cotton goods pro-
hibeted."

Early in 1799 he ventured in the same ship (Citizen) to
Vera Cruz, in the Gulf of Mexico, and endeavored to open a
trade and dispose of the investment he had on board, adapted
to the wants of the inhabitants of the city of Mexico. Disap-
pointed in gaining permission to land his goods, he proceeded
to Honduras, thence to Havana and New York.

The information Captain Hubbell obtained at Vera Cruz
of the vast wealth of the Spaniards in their South American

'' History of the Burr Family, 96.

Bridgeport, 613

States on the Pacific coast, and the fabulous reports of the
demand for certain descriptions of goods, enabled him, on
returning home, to plan an important and enterprising ven-
ture to those countries. Being a man of great prudence yet
indomitable energy, he at once enlisted the confidence of his
friends, purchased the ship Enterprise, of 250 tons, and joined
capital with Isaac Moses and Son, and Hoyt and Tom, each
owning one-third of the ship and cargo. After taking on
board an invoice of costly goods, of little bulk, adapted to the
wants of the Spaniards in Chili and Peru, and in addition, to
guard against possible failure and disappointment, as at Vera
Cruz, shipping a quantity of goods suited for traffic with
the Indians on the northwest coast of America, he sailed
from New York in October, 1799, with intelligent officers
and a reliable crew, numbering thirty men and bo3's. Mak-
ing slow progress in crossing the equator and coming into
the high southern latitudes with lengthening days, they
decided to seek a harbor on the east coast of Patagonia,
which the}' effected in the latitude of about 45° south, where
they cleaned the ship of barnacles and sea grass, for further
and swifter progress. Passing Cape Horn early in February,
after a stormy and tempestuous time, they were favored in
the Pacific Ocean with fine southerly breezes, which carried
them along the coast of Patagonia and southern Chili, and
about the first of March, 1800, anchored in the harbor of
Valparaiso.

As man}' of the crew were suffering with scurvy for the
want of vegetables, of which they had been without for many
months, the governor granted permission for the ship to
remain in port for a reasonable time, but as no vessels except
those bearing the Spanish flag were allowed to enter the port
for purposes of trade, the Enterprise was closely watched
and guarded by revenue officers. During this stay Captain
Hubbell obtained a passport to visit the capital, Santiago de
Chili, ninety miles in the interior, and was the first citizen of
the United States allowed to visit that city. He was espe-
cially noticed by the Viceroy, General O'Higgins, upon
whom he called, and requested to land and sell his cargo
under any restrictions His Excellency might see fit to enjoin.
40

6 14 History of Stratford.

While permission was refused, yet the beautiful city was
shown to him and he returned to his vessel. Lingering at
Valparaiso for ten days he succeeded in making a conditional
sale for the greater portion of his cargo to the governor,
deliverable at Conception, a bay about three hundred miles
south of Valparaiso. After arranging the terms an agent
was placed on board the vessel, who, after it had sailed,
examined the cargo, and following instructions, they ap-
proached Conception Bay, where a payment of 150,000 Span-
ish dollars was to be made on board, in advance of the deliv-
ery of the goods. The morning was fair, the scenery mag-
nificent, a beautiful bay and harbor could be seen, overtopped
by the snow-capped Cordilleras in the distance, as the ship
glided to her haven. The agent landed and proceeded tow-
ards a thi'cket at a short distance, but instead of finding
friends to answer his countersign, he was surprised by a
squad of cavalry in ambush. Seeing at once the treachery
of the officers and his own defeat, he sprang for his life
towards the boat, into which the crew took refuge also, he
barely escaping the coils of a lasso as they pushed off for the
ship, which was reached in safety except a wound received
by one of the officers from the ambush. Some years after-
wards it was learned that the governor's friends betrayed
him and the silver coin sent to Conception Bay was seized
by the viceroy and confiscated.

Captain Hubbell then sailed toward the northwest coast
of America, and approaching the coast of New Spain he
stood into the harbor of San Bias, with the hope of landing
the Spanish agent, but being fired upon from the forts he
continued his course northerly to Nootka Sound. At this
place and the adjacent coasts he traded such suitable goods
as he had with the Indians for their valuable furs, and pro-
ceeded to China, callmg at the Sandwich Islands and the
Russian settlements near Kamtschatka, where he sold them
at a great price, with which he purchased a large portion of
a cargo of cheap Bohea tea and other goods. Sailing in
January he arrived off Bridgeport, in Long Island Sound,
June 27, 1802, one hundred and forty days from Canton on
his way to New York City. Being the first navigator of the

Bridgeport. 6 1 5

globe from New York, his arrival caused much excitement.
Many of his friends had mourned for him as lost for he had
not been heard from during his absence of nearly three years."

In the spring of 1803 Captain Hubbell purchased an
interest in the Catharine Ray, a fine vessel of about 200 tons,
and took command of her as captain and supercargo, on a
voyage to China, with a view to an important investment in
silks, which voyage was performed in regular course, return-
ing to New York in the spring of 1804. Under a similar
arrangement with the same owners he made a second vo3'age
to China, returning home in the spring of 1805, when the
vessel was sold.

In May, 1805, he resumed the command of his old ship,
Citizen, under the auspices of the firm of Hoyt and Tom, and
fitted her for a voyage to China, which was performed by
investing $150,000 in Spanish coin in the purchase of silks, he
receiving only his commission, and returned to New York in
May, 1806, In October, 1807, he sailed on another voyage to
China, in the ship Augustus, owned by Isaac Moses and Son,
Hoyt and Tom, and himself, stopping on his way at the Isle
of France, where he purchased a cargo of cotton. Disposing
of his cotton at Canton he, after some unexpected delays and
difficulties, shipped a cargo of tea, upon the recommendation
of Houqua, the senior Hong merchant, to whom, in want of
sufficient funds, he gave the following note :

Canton, China, January 15, 1808.
"$103,000. Twelve months after date, for value received,
I promise to pay to the order of Houqua, Hong merchant,
one hundred and three thousand dollars for cargo of tea per
ship Augustus, with interest at 12 per cent, per anum.

EzEKiEL Hubbell."

Leaving Canton he sailed for Amsterdam, Holland, for
the sale of his tea, but on arriving at Plymouth, in the Eng-
lish Channel, found that in consequence of war between
England and Holland the port of Amsterdam was blockaded.
After consulting London merchants he proceeded on his

^'^ It is stated that another vessel from New York had been around the globe,
conripleting the voyage in 1799.

6i6 History of Stratford.

voyage through the North Sea, where, after some delay,
lying in sight of the blockading squadron, he ran the block-
ade in the night. The sun rose brightly the next morning
and found the good ship Augustus embeded in the sandy
beach, near the main channel to Amsterdam, fully protected
by the fortifications, while in the distant offing the British
fleet was seen powerless to reach her. Permission being
obtained from Louis Bonaparte, then King of Holland, the
cargo was soon landed in the king's warehouses at Amster-
dam, from which it was afterwards disposed of through the
aid of London merchants, and Captain Hubbell reiurned to
New York, arriving in December, 1808. After enormous
expenses the result, still, was a large profit, leaving Captain
Hubbell, for those days, not only independent, but rich. He
paid his note, which was receipted as follows: "Received
pay in full, with interest, as adjusted, $119,000. Houqua."

Under this Captain Hubbell wrote: " Paid, thank God!
E. H."

From 1809 until 1812 Captain Hubbell resided at his
country home in Bridgeport, where he occupied his time in
gratifying his tastes and assisting his friends in their various
pursuits in life. In 1813 he entered into an extensive specula-
tion by purchasing large tracts of woodlands near West Point,
on the Hudson river, with the object of furnishing ship tim-
ber, but the enterprise proved a losing investment. This,
with other losses in consequence of the war, led him again
to project foreign adventure.

In 1817, after nine years spent mostly in retirement, he
planned a voyage to the eastern world, and in combination
with his friends Hoyt and Tom and others, sailed in his old
ship. Citizen, as captain and supercargo, with ample means in
Spanish dollars, for Manila. There he loaded with sugars
and indigo, and returned to New York, realizing but moder-
ate returns on the expenditures and risks. Retaining his
interest in the Citizen, she was despatched again to Manila
in the spring of 1819, under the command of Captain Loring,
with Captain HubbelTs son George William, then twenty-
three years of age, on board as supercargo in charge of the
business of the ship. She loaded at Manila for Hamburg,
where she arrived in May, 1820. His son, after dispatching

Bridgeport. 6 1 7

the ship from Hamburg back to Manila, in charge of Captain
Loring as master and supercargo, returned to New York,
where he arrived in February, 1821.

Captain Hubbell continued to reside at his home in
Bridgeport from the spring of 1818 until 1821, when he
embarked in the ship Ajax, a new vessel in which he was
interested, and the building of which he superintended. His
two sons, George William and Henry Wilson, the former
twenty-five and the latter sixteen years of age, were passen-
gers on this voyage, and had in view the establishing of a
mercantile house in Manila. The Ajax sailed from New
York xAipril 21, 1821, and arrived at Manila the following
August, after 120 days passage. She loaded and returned to
New York, arriving in May, 1822, leaving his sons at Manila,
who during the year prepared a cargo for the Ajax on her
return as a regular trader in the monsoon season. Captain
Hubbell made four vo^'ages in the Ajax, taking out valuable
investments of English and French manufactures adapted to
the wants of that people. The Ajax was finally sold, and
within four months afterwards, in August, 1825, foundered in
crossing the Atlantic on a voyage to England.

In June, 1825, he took command of the ship Sabina, and
proceeded to Manila, where he loaded and arrived home
April 22, 1826, bringing with him his younger son.

On December 26, 1826, he sailed on a voyage in the ship
Sabina to Rio Janeiro and Valparaiso (where he landed under
very different circumstances from those encountered on his
former visit to Chili in 1801), thence to Lima and Pata in
Peru, Guayaquil, in Ecuador, thence to the Sandwich Islands,
and thence to Manila. At the latter place he loaded his ship
from proceeds of treasure which was taken over in the ship
from Lima, together with returns from cocoa shipped from
Guayaquil, and sandal wood from the Sandwich Islands.
After an absence of fifteen months and eighteen days he
arrived at New York April 14, 1828, in a passage of one
hundred and eighteen days from Manila. His son, Henry
Wilson, in the capacity of supercargo, was with him through-
out the voyage. This was Captain Hubbell's last voyage.

The following extract is from a letter written by Capt.
Hubbell under date Dec. 7, 1833:

6i 8 History of Stratford.

" I have retired from going to sea, some five or six years,
but to give you some idea of my travels, I have traveled
245,000 geographical miles since I passed my fourteenth year,
which distance was made up in eight voyages to the Indies,
which average over 30,000 miles each vo3^age. I am 65 years
of age — now set myself down in this village enjoying the
fruits of my travels and for passtime accepted the Presidency
of the Connecticut Bank, which has been in operation two
years very successfully thus far."

Capt. Hubbell was a member of the First Congregational
Church in Bridgeport, to which he was strongly attached.
He died from the effects of an influenza April i, 1834.

George William Hubbell and Henry Wilson Hubbell,
sons of Capt. Ezekiel Hubbell, were captains, supercargos
and merchantmen, and followed the sea most of their lives.
George William, after traveling round the globe many times,
performing efficient and successful service as a merchant,
died at Manila, Philippine Islands, May 3, 1831, aged 35
years. Henry Wilson continued to follow the sea as a mer-
chant more than twenty years after the decease of his brother,
and his voyages in distance sailed sums up to over 370,000
miles."

Two other illustrations of Bridgeport sea captains are
given in "A Centennial History" of 1876, by Major W. B.
Hincks, in some sketches of men of the Revolution.

" Early in the war Capt. David Hawley, of Stratfield,
sailed to the West Indies for a cargo of gunpowder, which,
upon his return, was divided between the towns of Stratford
and Fairfield, a part of it being stored for a tiriie in Nichols'
tavern on the old county road. In March, 1776, he sailed
again from Stratford in command of a privateer sloop, but
was captured, when four days out, by a British man of war,
Bellona. Large inducements were offered him by his captors
to change his allegiance and act as a pilot to the British fleet,
but these were firmly declined. He was taken to Halifax,
but after a captivity of only two weeks made his escape with
eight companions in a small boat, and at length found his
way back home. In August, 1776, he was commissioned by

'^ See History of the Hubbell Family, 144.

"".y ■■ jjij .o.iiJ-"-'-'"

y^d^OyC ^^0^4^4y/^'i

Bridgeport. 619

the legislature to raise a naval detachment for service upon
Lake Charaplain, and a few months later he took part in the
disastrous action fought upon this lake between the British
and American flotillas. After this, Long Island Sound was
his cruising ground, and besides capturing Judge Jones we
find him in May, 1777, and again in August of the same year,
bringing a number of prizes into Black Rock harbor. After
the war he resided in Bridgeport until his decease in 1807.
He built on the corner of Water and Gilbert streets the first
brick house erected within the city limits."

" Capt. Samuel Smedley sailed upon the Atlantic as
commander of the brig Defense, perhaps the most successful
vessel in the Colonial Navy. He captured many prizes,
among them the British ship C3^rus, mounting eighteen guns
and laden with a cargo that sold for about ;i^20,ooo, one of the
most valuable captures made during the revolution. After
the war Capt. Smedley was for many years collector of Cus-
toms for this district, residing and having his office at Fairfield."

Capt, Isaac Utirroughs, son of Stephen Burroughs,
born in Bridgeport or Newfield, Conn.,, in 1778, and died
at his residence in Bridgeport, Conn., January 8, 1861, was
also a sea captain. Like his father before him, he was exten-
sively engaged in navigation and owned a large number of
vessels, which plied between Boston, New York and nearly
all the southern ports, besides visiting many of the islands of
the sea. He was a large owner of real estate in this city, and
a director in the old Bridgeport bank. He was a life-long
Whig and Republican, and as such represented his town in
the State Legislature. He was a warden for several years of
St. John's Episcopal Church, and one of its most liberal sup-
porters. He married Rebecca, daughter of Andrew Hurd,
of Old Mill, Conn. Their children were six in number, all of
whom are deceased. Catharine A. married A. A. Pettingill,
an accomplished gentleman and scholar, of Bridgeport. She
gave in her will the elegant building known as the Burroughs
Block, to the Bridgeport Public Library for a perpetual
library building.'^

" See Bridgeport Public Library and Reading Room.

CHAPTER XX.

ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY.

EVVFIELD village people, both Congrega-
^L tional and Episcopal, went to Stratfield, a
distance of one mile or more, about twenty-
five years, to church, but as soon as the bor-
)^^^!^''-:^y^ ough was organized in 1800 movements began
s^w^rjci^,^/ |-Q bi'ing these churches into the borough,
where then were located the post office and
stores.

The Episcopal people were the first to
build a church edifice here.

St. John s Church, Bridgeport.

The first edifice built as a house of wor-
ship for this church in Stratfield was erected
in the summer of 1748, as indicated by the following record:'

" I have formerly mentioned a Church built at Stratfield,
in which they are very urgent to have me officiate every
third Sunday, because we have large congregations when I
preach there. The people living in the town and westward
are very much against it, because Mr. Caner used to keep
steadily to the Church in town, but then there was neither
Church nor Congregation at Stratfield."

Mr. Caner resigned his pastorate in Fairfield and re-
moved to Boston in the year 1747, and Mr. Lamson was his
successor as missionary pastor at Fairfield, and he says there
was " neither Church nor congregation at Stratfield," under

' Church Documents of Conneciicut, vol. i, page 246, letter of Joseph Lainson,
dated Fairfield, Nov. 10, 1748.

Bridgeport. 62 1

Mr. Caner, and hence the interest in establishing a church in
this locality must have taken form and the church been built
after Mr. Lamson came and in the year 1748, and Mr. Lamson
held services in it that year. It was called St. John's Church
and was a frame building with a steeple, and stood on the
corner of Church Lane (now Wood avenue, of Bridgeport).
Among the contributors for its erection were Col. John Burr,
John Holburton, Timothy Wheeler, Joseph Seeley, John
Nichols, Richard Hall and Samuel Beardslee. For some
3'ears the Rev. Joseph Lamson officiated, dividing his labors
so as to minister here and in other localities, and was suc-
ceeded by the Rev. John Say re.

Tradition says Mr. Lamson was engaged to marr}^ Abi-
gail Rumsey, of Fairfield, that she went to Stratford to visit
friends, was taken very ill, and being attended by her parents
and Mr. Lamson in her illness, she directed just before her
decease, that a string of gold beads which she wore should be
taken from her neck and placed on his, which was done and
he wore them as long as he lived. The following is the tomb-
stone inscription memorial of the young lady: "Abigail Rum-
sey, Daughter of Mr. Benj"'" & Mrs. Rebecka Rumsey of
Fairfield, Who Died Octb'' 14, 1743, Aged 16 years & 7
months.""

Although there was neither church nor congregation at
Stratfield, there were communicants of the Episcopal Church
residing here while Mr. Caner preached at Fairfield, for the
following vote is recorded in the Stratfield society's book:
" December 24, 1746. Voted a tax or rate on all the polls
and ratable estate of the Society, of nine pence on the pound
to defray the ministerial charges in the society. Professed
Churchmen exempted." This vote, however, to exempt the
churchmen was rescinded at a society meeting the next Feb-
ruary.

It is certain that some of these men who contributed to
build this Episcopal Church were prominent persons in the
Congregational society until the great stir made soon after
Whitefield's visit to Stratford and Fairfield in October, 1740.

^ See page 227 of this book.

622 History of Stratford.

The following record is conclusive: "At a lawful meeting of
the Society of Stratfield held on 22 day of December, 1743,
it was voted that Capt. John Burr, David Sherman, Jr., and
Timothy Wheeler be a committee to order the prudentials
of the society for the year ensuing." Col. John Burr was
moderator of this same meeting, so that his position as a
prominent man of the Congregational society at that date is
also decided. It is indicated that Col. Burr and Timothy
Wheeler united with the Episcopal Church in the year 1744,
since in the annual meeting of the Stratfield society, Decem-
ber, 1744, neither of their names occurs.

John Beardslee, who has been supposed to have been a
member of the Episcop)al Church some years earlier, was
moderator of the Stratfield society's meeting in October,
1743. Samuel Beardslee was not prominent in the Stratfield
society; he conformed to the Episcopal Church, probably,
with others in 1744, and after several years joined the Baptist
Church.

It is therefore quite certain that in 1740 there were very
few if any communicants of the Episcopal Church residing
within the boundaries of the Stratfield society.

The records of this St. John's Church now in existence,
begin with a copy of the summons of "those persons profess-
ors of the Episcopal Church, inhabitants of Stratfield Society,
to appear at the Church in said Society, Thursday the ninth
day of instant December, at two of the clock in the afternoon,
for the purpose of forming themselves into one body Corpo-
rate, or Society, for to chuse Society officers for the well-
ordering and governing the prudential affairs of said Episco-
pal Church as they in their wisdom shall judge meet and
fitting." This document bears the date December i, 1784.
The first meeting was held on the day designated and after
choosing the parish officers it was "voted to settle Mr. Philo
Shelton in this Society." Mr. Shelton at that time was a
candidate for orders, and continued to officiate as lay reader
until the arrival of Bishop^Seabury, who admitted him to the
order of Deacons of Christ Church, Middletown, and to the
order of Priesthood in Trinity Church, New Haven, in 1785.
Aside from the fact that his rectorship was the first after the

Bridgeport. 623

organization, and the longest that the parish has known, he is
also to be remembered as the first individual who received
Episcopal ordination in this country, as appears from the
inscription placed over his remains, which were interred in
the Episcopal Church which was at Mill Plain, Fairfield, also
under his charge. The increase of business and the popula-
tion in the borough of Bridgeport, necessitated a change in
the locality of the church, and accordingly in 1801 the second
edifice was erected at the southeast corner of State and Broad
streets in Bridgeport. Mr. Shelton's rectorship continued
until Easter in 1824.

The following sketch of his life and labors is taken largel}'
from the '' Seabury Centenary of Connecticut," published in
1885.

Mev. Philo Shelton, son of Samuel and grandson of
Daniel Shelton, was born in Ripton — now Huntington — May
7, 1754. He was graduated at Yale College in 1775, and offi-
ciated as lay reader in several places, principally at Fairfield,
Stratfield and Weston, after 1779. While waiting for ordina-
tion he married, April 20, 1781, Lucy, daughter of Philip
Nichols, Esq., of Stratford — now Bridgeport. In February,
1785, a formal arrangement was made that his services in
each of the three places should be proportioned to the num-
ber of churchmen residing in them respectively, and until he
should be in orders it was stipulated to pa}' him twenty
shillings lawful money for each day that he officiated. Rev.
Ashbel Baldwin, his nearest neighbor in parochial work, and
most intimate friend and associate in efforts to build up the
church in Connecticut, used to say that the hands of Bishop
Seabury were first laid upon the head of Mr. Shelton on the
3d of August, 1785, so that his name really begins the long
list of clergy who have received ordination in this country
by Bishops of the Protestant Episcopal Church. In the
Diocesan Convention, under an established rule of that body,
he invariably outranked Mr. Baldwin, and so was frequently
the presiding officer in the absence of the Bishop, which is
another proof that he was his senior by ordination as well as
in years.

624 History of Stratford.

After his admission to Holy Orders, according to his
own statement, Mr. Shelton took full " pastoral charge of the
cure of Fairfield, including Stratfield and Weston, dividing
his time equally between the three churches, with a salary of
one hundred pounds per annum from the congregations, and
the use of what lands belonged to the cure." Five years
passed away before the enterprise of building a new church
in Fairfield was really begun, and then it was erected about a
mile west of the site where the old one stood, and was only
inclosed and made fit for occupancy at the time and not fin-
ished and consecrated until 1798.

Then the population was drifting from Stratfield toward
the borough of Bridgeport, and in t8oi it was deemed advisa-
ble to demolish the old church and build a new one in a more
central locality ; and Mr. Shelton, seeing the wisdom and
advantage of this movement, encouraged it.

This new church in the borough was so far completed
that it was used in the beginning of Advent, 1801, and two
years later " the ground floor was sold at public vendue for
the purpose of building the pews and seats thereon, and fin-
ishing the church, and the money raised in the sale amounted
to between six and seven hundred dollars." The building
cost about thirty-five hundred dollars above this, and was
met by voluntary contributions of the people. Mr. Shelton,
in speaking of the whole work, said : " It has been conducted
in harmony, with good prudence, strict economy, and a de-
gree of elegance and taste which does honor to the committee
and adds respectabilit}^ to the place."

For nearly forty years the scene of his ministerial labors
was undisturbed, and he dwelt among his people in quietness
and confidence and had the satisfaction of seeing them attain
to a high degree of worldly prosperity. The silent influence
of a good life carried him along smoothly and left its gentle
impress wherever he was known. "A faithful pastor, a guile-
less and godly man," is a part of the inscription upon the
marble monument erected over his ashes in the Mountain
Grove Cemetery at Bridgeport, a few years since, by his son
William, and these words sum up very appropriately his
ministerial and Christian character. While he confined him-

Bridgeport. 625

self closely to the duties of his cure, he shrank not from work
put upon him by the diocese and was for twenty-four years a
member of the standing committee and a firm supporter of
ecclesiastical authority in seasons of trial and trouble. He
was also several times chosen a deputy to the General Con-
vention, and never failed to attend its sessions.

Mr. Shelton continued to serve in this parish until his
resignation of the pastorate of St. John's Church, which took
effect at Easter in 1824. After this he confined his labors
regularly to the church in Fairfield, but did not long survive
the change, for he died February 27, 1825, and was buried
under the chancel of the old church in Mill Plain, Fairfield,
where he had ministered so many years, and a marble tablet
was provided by the congregation to mark his resting place,
on which, among other things, were inscribed the date of his
birth, graduation, admission to Holy Orders, and the words:
" being the first clergyman Episcopally ordained in the United
States."

The remains of Mr. Shelton now have a final resting-place
with those of his wife and two of his daughters in Mountain
Grove Cemetery. A monumental tablet in the wall of St.
John's Church, Bridgeport, " bears an affectionate testimony
to his Christian worth and ministerial fidelity." Bishop
Brownell said of him : " For simplicity of character, amiable
manners, unaffected piety, and a faithful devotion to the
duties of the ministerial office, he has left an example by
which all his surviving brethren may profit, and which few
of them may hope to surpass."

His widow survived him thirteen years, being an intelli-
gent and devout churchwoman, who, as it has been said, " lelt
a name only to be loved and honored by her friends." Two
of his sons entered the ministry. George Augustus Shelton,
the younger, was a graduate of Yale College, and died rector
of St. James's Church, Newtown, L. I., in 1863. The other
son, William Shelton, D.D., succeeded his father for a time
in Fairfield, and then went to Buffalo, where for more than
half a century he was the distinguished rector of St. Paul's
Church, the oldest parish in that city. Both died childless.

626 History of Stratford.

Hev, Henry H,. Judah in 1824 succeeded the Rev.
Philo Shelton in the pastorate of St. John's Church, and
continued therein until the year 1833, when he was followed
by the Rev. Dr. Gurdon S. Coit. In 1836 the third church
edifice was built, located at the southeast corner of Broad
and Cannon streets, and Dr. Coit served the parish until 1861,
when he resigned.

Gurdon SalfonsfaU Coit, D,D.f was born in New
London, Conn., October 28, 1808, and was graduated at Yale
College in 1828, and became rector of St. John's Church,
Bridgeport, in October, 1833. In 1836, during his labors
here, the third edifice of worship for this church was built
on the corner of Broad and Cannon streets, a stone structure
of dignified proportions and commodious capacity. It is still
standing but occupied for other purposes, the congregation
having removed to their new edifice on the corner of Park
and Fairfiefd avenue.

Dr. Coit continued rector of this parish with much suc-
cess until he accepted the chaplaincy of Colonel Berdan's
regiment of sharp-shooters, September 26, 1861. After the
war he became rector at Naugatuck and subsequently at
West Haven. He died in Southport, Conn., Nov. 10, 1869.

In 1861 Dr. Coit was succeeded by the Rev. Junius M.
Willey, whose brief rectorship was terminated by his untimely
death on April 7, 1866, This is the only instance in the long
history of the parish in which its members have been called
to follow the remains of one who while yet their official head
had been summoned from the labor of earth to the rest of the
blessed.

Mev. JEatOfi W. Maxcy, D.D.f became the pastor of
St. John's Church at Whit Sunday, 1867, and continued in its
service until his resignation took effect on Easter, 1885. Dur-
ing his labors here the fourth edifice of worship for this parish
was erected, being located at the corner of Park and Fairfield
avenues, which was occupied by the congregation the first
time at Easter in 1875. It is one of the finest edifices in the
city and has one of the most favorable locations. Dr. Maxcy
resigned this parish after eighteen years of successful and

Bridgeport. 627

most constant labors, at Easter, 1885, ^nd has since become
the rector of a pleasant and prosperous church in the city of
Troy, N. Y.

First Congregational Church of Bridgeport.

This was originally the Stratfield Church, the history of
which until 1745 has been given in a previous part of this
book. The Rev. Samuel Cooke, the pastor, died December
2, 1747, and his successor was Lyman Hall.

Mr, Lyman Rail was born in Wallingford, April 12,
1724, and graduated at Yale College in 1747. He studied
theology with an uncle in Cheshire, and was ordained in
Stratfield, September 20, 1749, but his pastorate was short,
closing June 18, 175 1. He then taught school in Fairfield,
studied medicine and became a physician. He married. May
20, 1752, Abigail, the accomplished daughter of Thaddeus
Barr. She died July 8, 1753, as seen by the inscription on
her grave-stone.'

Mr. Hall was in Fairfield as late as 1757, but afterwards
removed to the State of Georgia, and early in 1775 took a
seat in the Continental Congress as a representative of that
patriotic people. He was a signer of the Declaration of
Independence, and in 1783 was the first Governor of that
State. He died October 19, 1790, leaving a widow but no
children.*

^ " Here lies buried the Body of Mrs. Abigail Hall, wife of Lyman Hall M.A.,
Daughter of Thaddeus Burr, Esq^, died July 8*'\ 1753, Aged 24 Years.

Modest, yet free, with innocence adorned ;

To please and win, by Art and Nature formed ;

Benevolent and wise, in virtue firm ;

Constant in Friendship, in Religion warm ;

A partner tender, unaffected, kind ;

A lovely Form, with a more lovely mind, —

The scene of Life iho' short sh' improved so well.

No charms in human forms could more excel ;

Christ's Life her copy ; His pure law her Guide ;

Each part She acted, perfected, and dy'd."

* Sermon by the Rev. Charles Ray Palmer, of Bridgeport, 1876.

628 History of Stratford.

Hew Hohevt Hohs^ after an interval of two years and
more, succeeded Mr. Hall in the pastorate of the Stratfield
Congregational Church. He was the son of Irish parents,
but a native of this country. He was born in 1726, graduated
at Princeton in 175 1, and ordained pastor here November 28,
1753, which position he filled with much efficiency and suc-
cess more than forty-two years. He lived on the old stage
road, a little west of Church Lane, in a house recently taken
down. He was beyond doubt a remarkable man. He was
six feet in height and well proportioned. His presence was
imposing, and his ruffled shirt, wig, and cocked hat seemed
peculiarly in keeping with it. His usual dress was a black
suit with knee breeches, and white topped boots. He was
distinguished for his classical attainments and was esteemed
as a sound theologian ; but he most strongly impressed him-
self upon the community through the warmth of his patriot-
ism and the decisiveness of his political convictions. He
became a man of influence on the patriotic side and propor-
tionally obnoxious to the royalists. At the outbreak of the
Revolutionary War he preached on the text, " For the divis-
ions of Reuben there were great searchings of heart," in a
way long to be remembered. A company of soldiers, raised
to join the invasion of Canada, in the fall of 1775, mustered
in his door yard and was commended to God in a fervent
prayer by him, before starting on their expedition. He was a
steadfast promoter of education and published some school
books. He married, first, Mrs. Sarah, widow of Samuel
Hawley, December 18, 1753. She was Sarah Edwards before
marriage to Mr. Hawley. She died October 10, 1772. Mr.
Ross married, second, Eulilia, daughter of Ebenezer and
Elizabeth (Williams) Bartram, of Fairfield. She died Decem-
ber 9, 1785, in her 49th year, being much esteemed by the
people. Mr. Ross married in 1786, Sarah, daughter of Rev.
Jonathan Merrick, of North Branford. She died August 29,
1799, leaving a son, Merrick, who died September 11, 1799.
By his first wife he had a son and daughter. The son, while
a lad, was drowned in his father's well, but the daughter,
Sarah, married Eliphalet Jennings, and her descendants are

* Sermon by the Rev. Charles Ray Palmer, of Bridgeport, 1876.

Bridgeport. 629

still living-. Another son, of the third marriage, survived his
father only a few days.

Mr. Ross resigned his charge April 30, 1796, and died
August 29, 1799, of a fever, and within twenty-four hours
Mrs. Ross died of the same disease. They were buried in
the same grave.

The long period covered by the pastorates of Cook, Hall,
and Ross — over eighty years — saw many changes in the com-
munity at Stratfield. The inhabitants were no longer solely
farmers and stock growers, but had developed, before the
middle of the century, in spite of all discouragements, a
coasting trade of quite honorable proportions, and a race of
mariners had been bred to the ocean. Mechanics and trades-
men, in a new form, had found means for living- in Stratfield,
and thus the simple uniformity of the earlier period passed
away. Political events, too, brought about changes. The
French and Indian wars introduced no foeman within the
borders of Connecticut, but her sons did yeoman service in
the struggles of sister colonies. The Revolution, as is well
known, laid heavy burdens upon the Connecticut coast, and
the long train of evils which accompanied and followed it
went far toward ruining every interest of society. The last
ten or twenty years of Mr. Ross's ministry were, for many
reasons, times of trial. The diseases, vices, sufferings, losses,
universal insolvency, which came with or were entailed by
the war, made darker days than had ever been seen before.
Good morals were forsaken and godliness decayed to a dis-
astrous extent. The difficulties, depressions and straits of
the church during this time must have tasked even so ardent
and zealous a man as Mr. Ross. As the process of recuper-
ation slowly went on, another change in the community
worked important results. The little cluster of houses and
stores which acquired the name of Newfield, on the shore of
the harbor and in the vicinity of the present intersection of
State and Main streets, began to increase in importance, and
this was the nucleus of the future town and city of Bridge-
port, in which the individuality of Stratfield was eventually
to be lost.

630 History of Stratford.

JRev, Sainiiel JBlatchford was the successor of Mr.
Ross in the pastorate of the Stratfield Church. He was the
son of Henry and Mary Blatchford, and born in Devonport,
Devonshire, England, in the year 1767. His father's family
sympathised with the American cause during the Revolution,
and he was often employed to convey means of relief to
American prisoners of war in the Mill prison. His interest
in these objects of his friends' bounty led him to an early
purpose to visit this country. He was placed at a boarding
school at Willington, in Somersetshire, and afterwards at
Homerton College, near London. After completing his stud-
ies he was employed as assistant minister, and in November,
1789, he was ordained pastor at Kingsbridge, near Dartmouth.
He married, in March, 1788, Alicia, daughter of Thomas
Windeatt, Esq., of Bridgetown, Totwas, a lady admirably
fitted for her station, and spared to him to the end of his life.
In 1791 Mr. Blatchford removed to Topsham, near Exeter,
and thence, in 1795, he emigrated to America, according to
his long cherished purpose, and arrived in New York August
ist of that year. He preached first in Bedford, N. Y. ; then
for a year at Greenfield Hill, succeeding there President
Dwight.

In February, 1797, he was invited to preach in the Strat-
field church for six months, with the view of a settlement,
which he afterwards accepted, and he was installed Novem-
ber 22 of the same year. His salary being inadequate, he
added to it by teaching an academy for boys. He lived in a
house now numbered 644 Main street, and his academy was
just below, on land now owned by Thomas Calef. He lab-
ored here until March 20, 1804, when he resigned to accept a
call to Lansingburgh, N. Y., where he continued until his
death, March 17, 1828. He was honored with the degree of
D.D. by Williams College in 1808. He had seventeen chil-
dren, of whom ten survived him. While here he had not
developed his best powers, for, being unfamiliar with Amer-
ican life, scantily supported, burdened with work and care in
his double duties, he could not do justice to himself. But he
became an able, prominent man. As a preacher he was
instructive in matter, unaffected and impressive in manner.

Bridgeport. 63 1

He was well read in theolog-y, and decided in his convictions.
He possessed generous sympathies and was interested in all
enterprises of beneficence, especially in the education of
young men. His labors here were of great service to the
church, and only too soon terminated. The church at his
coming was low as to prosperity, but he gave it a rising
impulse. A revival in 1800 added a number of persons to
the membership, and in 1803 a movement to build a new
house of worship was successfully inaugurated. He died
December 2, 1846,

A story is told of Mr. Blatchford's ready and appropriate
use of language in rendering thanks at the table of William
Worden. Mr. VVorden had been to short beach and just
returned with some fine clams, which Mrs. Worden had
hastily cooked, as Mr, Blatchford happened to call. A very
plain table was set with bread, butter, milk, tea and the
clams, and Mr, Blatchford was invited to share the meal and
ask a blessing, which proposition he accepted, and in giving
thanks said: "O Lord, thou hast cast our lines in pleasant
places and given us a goodly heritage. Thou feedest us with
the finest of the wheat and givest us the milk of kine. Thou
causest us to suck the abundance of the sea and treasures hid
in the sand."

The removal of the Congregational place of worship was
more difficult than that of the Episcopal. The movement
originated in the borough and was wholly voluntary, and
therefore the records of the inception do not appear on the
books of the society.

The building shown in the accompanying cut as the First
Congregational Church was erected and inclosed during the
year 1803. On June 11, 1804, the society voted to agree to
hold the meetings for public worship half the time in Bridge-
port, when a house suitable for that purpose shall, without
expense to the society, be so far completed as to accommo-
date such meetings. Ayes, 32; nays, 19.

A meeting of the society was warned and held June 20,
1808, in the new meeting house, and it was voted to hold
public worship there two-thirds of the time, and during this
year the change was made entire.

632

History of Stratford.

Methodist.

Second
congregatiomal.

First Congregational.
A View of the Churches of Bridgeport in 1835, looking from the South.

A list of pew holders in the old church at this time, not
including pew owners, is recorded, namely : Josiah Lacey, Dea.
John P. Austin, William DeForest, Lambert Lockwood, Lewis
Sturges, Silas Sherman, Ezra Gregory, Thomas Woodward,
Simon Backus, Benjamin Wheeler, Stephen Burroughs, Jr.,
Wilson Hawley, Samuel Hawley, Jr., Elijah Burr, Stephen
Hull, Abijah Morehouse, William Benedict, Wid. Mary Sher-
man, Salmon Hubbell, Robert Southward, David Sterling,
Thomas Gouge, Jesse Seeley, Henry May, Abijah Sherman,
Samuel Wordin, Levi Silliman, Barzillai Benjamin, Anson
Beardsley, Samuel Burr.

In 1830 a division occurred in this church and thirty-nine
men and seventy-eight women were dismissed at their own
request, to form a second Congregational church, the old church
giving them one-half of the church property and funds, and
also contributing two thousand dollars toward the erection of
a church edifice. This new edifice, when built, being
so much of an improvement in such structures, seems
to have stimulated enterprise, for the Episcopal Church
was enlarged and improved, and the First Congregational

Bridgeport.

633

people also rebuilt their steeple in an improved form, and
reconstructed the pulpit and galleries.'

This building was occupied until 1850, when it gave place
to the present edifice. The former was purchased for the use
of Christ Church and removed upon John street, at the site
of the present works of Nichols, Peck and Co., where it was
accidentally destroyed by fire in 1851.

Mev, Elijah Waterman was the successor of Mr.
Blatchford. He was -the son of Nehemiah and Susannah
(Isham) Waterman, and born in Bozra, Conn., November 28,
1769; was graduated at Yale College in 1791, and engaged in
teaching, intending to study law, but changed his purpose,
and in 1792 became a student under Dr. Dwight at Green-

• A nearly complete list of pew holders in the First Congregational Church
in 1S35.

Officers of tlie Church : Rev. John Blatchford, pastor ; Isaac Sherman, David
Sherwood, and Sylvanus Sterling, deacons ; Isaac Sherman, Hanford Lyon, and
Joseph Mott, society's committee; Daniel Sterling, treasurer; N. S. Wordin,
clerk ; Nathaniel Wade, collector ; Sylvanus Sterling, salesman.

Daniel Thatcher,
Alanson Hamlin.
Alexander Hubbell,
Daniel Sterling,
Hanford L^on,
Thomas C. Wordin,
Samuel Niles,
Charles B. Hubbell.
Doct. James E. Beach,
S3'lvanus Sterling,
David Sterling,
Joel Thorp,
Philo C. Wheeler,
John M. Thompson,
Daniel Fayerweather,
Charles Hawley,
Gideon Thompson,
Benjamin Wheeler,
Isaac Sherman,
Nathaniel Wade,
Legrand Sterling,
Levi Wordin,

Peui holders.
Alanson Caswell,
Coley E. Betts,
James Betts,
Daniel Curtis,
Henry N. French,
Gurdon Hawley,
Abijah Heardsley,
Wyllys Stiilman,
Alexander Black,
Nathaniel Humiston,
Cyrus Botsford,
Titus C. Mather,
Joseph Mott,
Isaac M. Conklin,
Capt. E. Wicks,
David Wheeler,
David Victory Seeley,
Joseph Knapp,
George Wade,
Ezra Gregory,
Joseph P. Sturges,

Nichols Beardsley,
Lemuel Coleman,
William R, Bunnell,
Thomas Bartram,
Ira Peck,
Joseph C. Lewis,
David Hubbell, 3d,
Anson Hawley,
David Sherwood,
Robert Milne,
Wheeler French, Jr.,
Judson Bray,
Sturges and Smith,
Isaac E. Beach,
Stephen Nichols,
George Kippen,
Samuel Porter,
Elijah C. Spinning,
Samuel Wordin,
Louisa Bartlett,
Eleazer Edgerton.

634 History of Stratford.

field Hill, and afterwards with Dr. Jonathan Edwards at
New Haven. In April, 1794, he went to Windham to preach
as a candidate, and the next October was ordained pastor
there and served that church ten years. He married, No-
vember 18, 1795, Lucy, daughter of Shubael Abbe, of Wind-
ham. She was born May 21, 1778, and died at Bridgeport,
Sunday morning, March 17, 1822. He married, second,
Lucy Talcott, of Springfield, Mass., in October, 1823, who
survived him.

Mr. Waterman's ministry was terminated at Windham in
1804, and on the first day of January, 1806, he was installed
pastor of the church in Stratfield, where he continued until
his death. He built and resided in the house on Golden Hill
street now owned by the heirs of Hanford Lyon. In person
he was of medium height, well built, and had the appearance
of great physical strength, and possessed a fine presence.
He was active in his habits, p:)ssessed a high spirit and a
keen sense of favors and injuries, and was liable to sudden
outbreaks of temper, yet placable. He was a vigorous thinker
and his manner of delivery was animated and effective. He
was a moderate Calvinist, leaning strongly to the New School
side of theology in his day, but being a man of strong com-
mon sense and good will he kept his hold on men of both
sides, and averted any divisions in his congregation. In 1807
his new church edifice was completed, built by subscription
on the site at present occupied by the same society. At first
it was occupied two Sundays out of three, but after a short
time every Sunday. The borough of Bridgeport was
incorporated in 1800, with two hundred and fifty inhabitants,
and by a rapid growth it gradually absorbed the dwellers of
the more ancient settlement. In 1821 the town of Bridgeport
was erected and the parish of Stratfield, practically, ceased to
exist. The church soon felt the effects of Mr. Waterman's
invigorating administration. August 6, 1806, a confession of
faith, a covenant, and standing rules were adopted, and from
that time the half-way covenant was discontinued. In 1814
a Sunday-school was organized by Piatt Benedict, which was
the first in the town, and was ultimately taken under the care
of the church.

Bridgeport. 63 5

In April, 1821, the church purchased the land where the
chapel stands for a "conference room and academy," and a
building was erected to answer both purposes. Mr. Water-
man instructed a number of students in theology and proposed
to establish a theological school, but did not succeed in this
purpose.

When Mr. Waterman was installed the church consisted
of forty-seven members. To these there was a steady growth,
until in 1815, over one hundred had been added, mostly on
profession ol faith. Then came a powerful revival which
resulted in eighty-four additions. Four more years of quiet
growth followed, and then another revival season came, and
seventy-seven more were added to the membership. The
whole number added during his ministry was about three
hundred and sixty.

In 1825, while Mr. Waterman was on a visit to Spring-
field, Mass., he was taken ill of typhus fever and died there
October nth of that year. The church sent a committee to
bring hither his remains for interment, and thus ended a
useful life and a most successful ministry.'

In the settlement of a successor a difference of views
arose which ripened a few years later. The candidates were
a son of the former pastor, the Rev. Thomas T. Waterman,
and the Rev. Franklin Vail. Mr. Vail was finally chosen, but
he had a short pastorate.

Thomas Tileston Waterman,^ son of the Rev. Elijah
Waterman was born in Windham, Conn., September 24, 1801,
and four years after removed with his parents to Stratfield,
and was prepared for college by his father and at Hartford,
and was graduated at Yale in the class of 1822. He studied
theology with his father, and was ordained pastor of the
Richmond street Congregational Church, of Providence,
R. I., December 13, 1826. In 1837 he became pastor of the
Fifth Presbyterian Church, of Philadelphia, where he con-
tinued until 1843, when he returned to Providence, and was
installed pastor of the Fourth Congregational Church, which

■' Sermon of the Rev. C. Ray Palmer.
^ Fairfield County History, i66.

636 History of Stratford. .

soon after became known as the Free Evangelical Church.
After leaving this church he held pastorates in the Second
Presbyterian Church at Galena, 111., and in the Congrega-
tional Churches at Winona, Minn., Danielsonville, Conn.,
Spencer, Mass., and Monroe, Conn.

On December 11, 1827, Mr. Waterman married Delia,
daughter of Dann Storrs, a native of Mansfield, Conn., and
they had children: Thomas S., Alfred T., George I., Lucy
M., and Edwin S. Waterman. The Rev. Thomas T. Water-
man died in Stratford, Conn., August 7, 1S73, aged 71 years.

Mev, Franklin Y. Vail was born at East Hampton,
L. I., in 1797, entered Yale College, but did not graduate,
studied theolog}^ in New York, and was ordained here Octo-
ber 4, 1826. Neither his health nor his tastes fitted him for a
pastorate as well as for what became his life-work afterwards
— the raising of funds for beneficent enterprises. He was for
many years the general agent of the American Tract Society,
and was greatly valued by that institution. He afterwards
was the principal agent in founding and endowing Lane
Theological Seminary at Cincinnati, Ohio, and an institution
for female education in that vicinity. He died in that city
June 23, 1868, aged seventy-one years. His ministry at
Bridgeport ended July 8, 1828, and was notable for a revival
season in the winter of 1827 and 8, after which thirty were
added to the church.

In the settlement of a successor to Mr. Vail a decided
difference of theological sentiment became quite prominent.
Mr. John Blatchford, as a candidate in 1828, was understood
to be decidedly a new school man, and the more conservative
section of the church were opposed to calling him. In Janu-
ary, 1829, the church proved to be nearly equally divided,
and the call, issued by a majority of only four, Mr. Blatchford
declined. It proved impossible to harmonize the conflicting
elements, and, at length, December 28, 1829, a division of the
church was resolved upon. On January 24, 1830, three dea-
cons, thirty-six other men, and sevent^'^-eight women were
dismissed from the church, at their own request, to form a
second church, the old church giving them one-half of the

Bridgeport. 637

church propert}' and funds, and also contributed two thousand
dollars toward the erection of a church edifice. One week
later, January 31, 1830, those abiding in the old church, being
one hundred and seventy in number, renewed the call to Mr,
Blatchford. which he promptly accepted, and served them
until July 26, 1836, when he was dismissed.

Mev. John Blatchford^ son of the Rev. Samuel Blatch-
ford, D.D., a former pastor of this church, was born May 24,
1799, in Stratfield, graduated at Union College in 1820, stud-
ied theology in Princeton Theological Seminary, and was
ordained pastor of the Presbyterian Church at Pittstown,
N. Y., in August, 1823. He was installed pastor of the Pres-
b3'terian Church in Stillwater, in April, 1825, and on February
10, 1830, he was installed here. After being dismissed as
above, he removed to the West, resided successively at Jack-
sonville and Chicago, 111., and at Wheeling, Va. From 1841
to 1844 he was connected with Marion College, the latter
part of the period as president. He removed thence to West
Ely, Mo., and thence to Quincy 111., where he died in April,
1855. He received the degree of D.D. from Marion College
in 1841. He possessed a bright, ready mind, a genial spirit
and pleasing manners. His general appearance was attract-
ive and he was almost any where an acceptable minister. A
very interesting revival occurred under his labors here in
Bridgeport in 1831, which added eighty-six to the church
membership, and the church parted with him reluctantly.

J?ei*. John Woodhridge followed Mr. Blatchford, being
installed here June 14, 1837, and continued about seventeen
months and was in 1839 installed over the North Church in
New Hartford, Conn,

Rev, John H. Hunter succeeded Dr. Woodbridge,
being installed here February 27, 1839, ^"d continued until
November 13, 1845. He soon after went west to look after
lands left him by his father and was not again settled in the
ministry. This church grew under his ministry, especially
in 1844, vvhen twenty-five members were added at one time.

638 History of Stratford.

Mev, Henjamin St. John Patfe was installed pastor
here February 10, 1847, ^"^ continued until August 30, 1853.
During his pastorate here the present house of worship was
erected. The old house was removed northward a short
distance and occupied while building the new one, and was
used by this society for public worship the last time, April
7, 1850. It was purchased for the use of Christ Church,
removed to a new site on John street west of Broad, and in
1851 was accidentally destroyed by fire.'

The new house was built and fitted up at a cost of about
$25,000 — raised by subscription — the first paper bearing the
date June i, 1848. About two-thirds of the amount was in
stock, bearing interest at the rate of six per cent, per annum.
Most of this — both principal and interest — was subsequently
given to the society. Thomas Dixon, of Stamford, Conn.,
was the architect. The builders were, William A. Dowd,
mason, and Beardsley and Daskam, carpenters and joiners.
The building committee consisted of Freeman C. Bassett, Ira
Sherman, Hanford Lyon and Sherman Hartwell. The two
first named were the active members of the committee.

This edifice was dedicated on Thursday, April 11, 1850,
and on the Sunday following was opened for public worship,
and is well represented by the accompanying engraving — in
which the steeple of the former house, on its temporary site,
also appears. Beyond that is faintly seen the steeple of the
former St. John's Church.

In 1882 a thorough renovation and some improvement in
the interior of this edifice was deemed necessary for the com-
fort and prosperity of the church and society. Accordingly
the side galleries were removed, the walls, ceiling and orna-
mental plastering repaired, and all suitably decorated. Ele-
gant stained-glass, memorial windows were furnished, also
two new furnaces, new carpets and cushions, at a total cost
of six thousand dollars.

* The history of the First Congregational Church and its ministers thus far
given has been taken largel)- from the manuscript of the Rev. C. R. Palmer, cheer-
fully granted for this purpose, it having been obtained by him during several
years' research and inquiry.

THE ITRST CONGK^EGATIONAL CHURCH, EKECTEU IN 184S.

Bridgeport. 639

The following is a list of the memorial windows:
Rev. Charles Chauncey, pastor, 1695-1714.
Rev. Elijah Waterman, pastor, 1 806-1 825.
Rev. Samuel Blatchford, D.D., pastor, 1797-1804. )
Rev. John Blatchford, D.D., pastor, 1830-1836. S
Hanford Lyon, Rev. Henry Jones.

Ira Sherman. \ Sherman Hartwell. \

James C. Loomis. S Sophia Todd Hartwell. \

Dea. Sylvanus Sterling. ) Frederick W. Parrott. )

Thomas C. Wordin. i Henry R. Parrott. i

Dea. Isaac Sherman. [ Vestibule with historical dates.

Dea. Rowland B. Lacey. \

A List of the Deacons of the old Stratfield Church of
Christ, which is now the First Congregational Church, of
Bridgeport :

David Sherman, chosen in 1695, and died in 1753, aged 88 years.
Thomas Hawley, chosen in 171 2, and died in 1722, aged 44 years.
Lemuel Sherwood, chosen in 1722, and died in 1732.
Joseph Booth, chosen in 1733, and died in 1763, aged 74 years.
Richard Hubbell, son of one of the first members of this

church, was chosen m 1738, and died in 1788, aged 92

years. He gave to the church in 1738 the silver tankard

now in use in the communion service, on which his name

is engraved.
William Bennett, chosen in 1754, removed to North Fairfield

— now Easton — in 1756, and died in 1788, aged 79 years.
Henry Rowland, chosen in 1756, and died in 1775.
Abel Seeley, chosen in 1775, served until 1779, and died in

1810, aged 84 years.
Elijah Hawley, chosen in 1776, removed from the town in

1790, and died in Ohio in 1825, aged 81 years.
Seth Seeley, chosen in 1779, served until 1806, when, at his

own request, he was excused from further service, and

died in 18 17, aged 79 years.
Seth Sherman, chosen in 1806, died in 1807.
Doct. James E. Beach, chosen October 10, 1806, and died in

1838, aged y6 years. He gave to the church the silver

flagon now in use in the communion service.

640 History of Stratford.

John P. Austin, chosen October 21, 1807, served until 1813,

when he removed from the place.
William DeForest, chosen in 1813, was dismissed at his own

request with others to form the Second Congregational

Church.
Stephen Hawley, chosen August 31, 1821, and dismissed at

his own request for the same purpose as Dea. DeForest.
Josiah B. Baldwin, chosen in 1821, dismissed the same, and

for the same purpose as Dea. DeForest.
Isaac Sherman, chosen in 1830, and died November 23, 1863,

aged 75 years.
Sylvanus Sterling, chosen November 4, 1831, and died in

1848, aged 61 years.
David Sherwood, chosen November 4, 1831, and died in 1873,

aged 94 years.
Samuel Beach, M.D., chosen May 4, T849, ^"*^^ died May 6,

1853, a victim of the railroad accident at Norwalk bridge.
Rowland B. Lacey, chosen August 30, 1850, and is still serving.
John W. Hincks, chosen Sept. i, 1854, died Feb. 6, 1875.
Rev. Henry Jones, chosen Feb. 15, 1858, died Nov. 9, 1878.
Elbert E. Hubbell, chosen February 25, 1858.
Rev. Guy B. Day, chosen April i, 1874, and is still serving.
Samuel R. Wilmot, chosen March, 1875, and is still serving.
William B. Hincks, chosen March, 1875, ^^^d is still serving.

The communion service of the First Congregational
Church is of solid silver, and is an aggregation of gifts dating
from an early period in the history of the church, consisting
of various antique patterns with inscriptions, highly valued
as memorials of those who have passed on to the communion
of a higher sphere. The list contains the following:

One silver tankard, the gift of Lieut. Richard Hubbell to the

Church of Christ in Stratfield, A. D. 1738.
One silver flagon, presented to the First Congregational

Church in Bridgeport by Doct. James E, Beach, in 1830.
One silver cup, a gift to the Church of Christ in Stratfield by

Matthew Sherwood, January, 1713.
One silver cup, presented by Mr. John Edwards in 1746.
One silver cup, presented to the First Congregational Church

of Bridgeport, by Salmon Hubbell, in 1829.

Bridgeport. 641

One silver cup, presented by Isaac Sherman in 1836.

One silver cup, presented by Isaac E. Beach in 1839.

One silver cup, presented by Mrs. Sylvanus Sterling in 1839.

One silver cup, presented by Ira Sherman in 1839.

One silver cup, presented by Mrs. Ellen Porter in 1843.

Two silver cups, not inscribed.

Three silver goblets, presented by Mrs. Ira Sherman in 1868.

One silver plate, presented by the Rev. Henry Jones in 1867.

One silver plate, presented by Hanford Lyon in 1867.

One silver plate, presented by Dea. John W". Hincks in 1867.

One silver plate, presented by Dea. Rowland B. Lacey in 1867.

Hev. Joseph H, Totvne became pastor of this, the First
Congregational Church of Bridgeport, June 13, 1854, and
continued here until June 29, 1858. He was pastor in Salem
Street Church in Boston about 1838, when he was joined by a
portion of his church in founding the Leyden Chapel, located
in the same vicinity. This enterprise embraced some excel-
lent men, but was not successful. They inaugurated a new
departure in the order of worship, which was much com-
mented upon at the time. It consisted in the introduction of
responsive reading and chants, an order adopted since that
day by manv Congregational churches in New England.
Mr. Towne was an able and very interesting preacher. Dur-
ing his pastorate the congregations were large, and in 1857
and 8 there occurred one of the most extensive revivals this
church has ever known.

Hev, Matson Mier Smith, successor to Mr. Towne,
was born in Harlem — now New York — April 4, 1826, was
graduated at Columbia College, N. Y., in 1843, ^"d at the
Union Theological Seminary, N. Y., in 1847. He was or-
dained by the Presbytery of Geneva, October 23, 1849, *^^
pastor of the church in Ovid, N. Y., and in the same year,
November 14, he married Mary Stuart, daughter of Norman
White, Esq., of New York City, where she was born. He
resigned his charge in Ovid March 21, 185 1, to accept a call
to the Harvard Church, Brookline, Mass., where he was
installed June 5, 1851. There he labored until he was dis-
missed November 23, 1858, to accept a call to this church,

642 History of Stratford.

where he was installed January 5, 1859, ''^"d dismissed June
6, 1865. On March 6, 1866, he was ordained deacon in the
Protestant Episcopal Church by Bishop Eastburn, at Boston,

Mass.

Hev, George Michai'ds, a native of New London, was
graduated at Yale College in 1840, associate pastor for a time
in Summer street in Boston, after that was pastor in Litch-
field, Conn., from which place he came to this church and
was installed January 3, 1866. He was dismissed August 24,
1870, and died October 20, 1870.

Itei\ CJiarles Hay Palmer was born in New Haven,
May 2, 1834, and was the son of the Rev. Ray Palmer, D.D.,
and Ann Maria, the daughter of Marmaduke VVaud, Esq., ot
New York City. His father with his family at the time
occupied the school building on the lower green as a Young
Ladies' Institute. In the autumn of that year he removed
eastward, and in Ma3\ 1835, to Bath, Maine, where he became
pastor and continued fifteen and a half years. Charles R.
Palmer's education commenced in the academy at Bath, and
in September, 1849, he entered Billings Academy at Andover,
Mass., in the middle class, where he was graduated in 185 1,
and entered Yale College. He was graduated at Yale in
1855, and went to Mississippi as a private tutor for a year in
the family of John Murdock, Esq., a planter. In the autumn
of 1856 he entered the Andover Theological Seminary, where
he graduated in 1859. ^" August 29, i860, he was ordained
pastor of the Tabernacle Church of Salem, Mass., where he
labored nearly twelve years. In 1865 he spent seven months
in Europe. On February 10, 1869, he married Mary Chapin,
eldest daughter of A. S. Barnes, Esq., of Brooklyn, N. Y.
She was born in Philadelphia, Pa., but in her infancy her
parents removed to Brooklyn, where she was educated.

On August 15, 1872, Mr. Palmer commenced his pastoral
labors here, and on the nth of the next September was
installed pastor of this church and society. In 1875 his
health failed to such a degree that he signified his willingness
to resign his pastorate, but from which he was dissuaded.
He went to Europe, spent live months there, returned and
the next March resumed his labors.

Bridgeport.

643

In 1880 he again went to Europe for rest and the benefit
of his health, which has become fully established, and his
labors as preacher and pastor of the First Congregational
Church at the present time are highly appreciated and cor-
dially accepted.

The Second Congreffafional Cluiveli of Bridgeport
has been earnestly pursuing the object for which it was
organized, fifty-six years ; has had good success and attained
a strong position in the community.

On the i8th of March, 1880, it held its semi-centennial
anniversary, at which time a paper, prepared by the standing
committee, was read, in connection with other public ad-
dresses, from which the following history of the church is
taken, mostly in the words of the committee, since better
could not easily be produced :'"

"This church was organized January 28, 1830, by one
hundred and seventeen persons" — thirty-nine men and sev-
enty-eight women — who had been dismissed for the purpose

10 This sketch of
S. Hawley, upon the

'' The following
in 1835 :
Seth B. Jones,
William B. Dyer,
Burr Knapp,
Josiah Hubbell,
Victory Curtis,
Joseph Wood,
Fitch Wheeler,
Jesse Sterling,
Charles Deforest,
Munson Hawley,
x\bijah Hawley,
David Perry,
Stephen Hawley,
Edwin B. Gregory,
R. Thorborne,
Rowell Lewis,
Mrs. Wm. Burr,
David Hubbell,
Elliot Morris,

the Second Congregational Church was prepared by Edmund
request of the committee.

is a list of pew holders in the Second Congregational Church

Sherwood Sterling,
George Sterling,
Wilson Hawley,
William DeForest,
Lockwood DeForest,
Bronson Hawley,
Charles B. Middlebrook,
Edward Burroughs,
Harry Judson,
Josiah B. Baldwin,
Nichols Northrop,
Ransom C. Canfield,
Benjamin DeForest,
Mrs. Talman Perry,
Edwin Porter,
James Robinson,
E. C. Warren,
Bradley Gould,
Samuel Morse,

John Brooks, Jr.,
James Jennings,
Naihan Baldwin,
Samuel Peet,
Josiah S. Fayerweather,
Josiah B. Hall,
William B. Nash,
Charles Sherman,
George Wheeler,
Daniel B. Oviatt,

D. Mallory,
Zenas R. Mood)^
Benjamin Pilgrim,
Nathan Shepard,
Capt. E. Doane,

E. D. Bull,
John Cogswell,
William Allis.

644 History of Stratford.

from the Stratfield — now First Congregational — Church of
this city ; they being recognized as such the same day by a
council of ministers convened to assist in its organization ;
and after entering into church covenant, William DeForest,
Stephen Hawley and Josiah B. Baldwin were chosen dea-
cons. Religious services were temporarily held in the high
school house on State street, while measures were at once
taken for the erection of a house of worship. A lot on the
corner of Broad and Gilbert streets, where the church now
stands, was purchased, and its first edifice, built of wood, was
erected that year. It cost about $5,000, besides the founda-
tion and the finishing of the basement, which was done mainly
by the members of the church, some furnishing materials,
many working with their hands, and all doing something to
forward the work; the ladies, as well, taking an active inter-
est in everything connected with the prosperity of the church.
The house was soon completed, and on November 30, 1830,
it was dedicated to the worship of God, at which time the
church numbered one hundred and twenty-eight members.
At a meeting of the church held August 28, 1830, the Rev.
Nathaniel Hewit, D.D., was unanimously invited to become
its pastor, which call was accepted and he was installed
December i, 1830, Dr. Woods, of Andover, preaching the
sermon.

" During Dr. Hewit's ministry of nearly twenty-three
years, he had the confidence and respect of his church and
the whole community. It was his custom to preach three
times on the Sabbath, and lecture every Thursday evening.
He was a power in the church and in the world, and it is our
pleasure to bear testimony to his rare endowments and many
virtues, and to render our humble tribute to his memory.

" In the summer of 183 1 a friend of the cause of temper-
ance offered to pay Dr. Hewit's expenses if he would go to
England and present the cause of temperance in that country.
To this the church assented, and he sailed at the short notice
of four days. During his absence of nearly six months the
Rev. Mr. Hermance supplied the pulpit. Protracted meet-
ings were held, and for a considerable time prayer meetings
were held in the basement of the old church in the morning

SECOND CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, ERECTED IN 1860 AND 61.

Bridgeport. 645

at sunrise. In these much interest was taken and as a result
forty-seven were added to this church, and a large number to
the First Church.

" Dr. Hewit was an eloquent man, mighty in the Scrip-
tures, and his warnings and denunciations against intemper-
ance and moderate drinking, his bold and heroic rebuke of
fashionable vice and immorality, at home and abroad, made a
deep impression on the public mind. During the latter part
of his ministry the old church edifice was altered, enlarp-ed
and repaired, at considerable expense. He continued pastor
until September 21, 1853, when he was dismissed, and on
October 9, seventy-eight members were, at their own re-
quest, dismissed to organize a Presbyterian church, of which
Dr. Hewit became pastor. The results of Dr. Hewit's minis-
try are here presented as written by himself on the records
of the church. 'At my installation, December i, 1830, there
were 128 members in the church. Of these 52 remain. There
have been added by profession, 153; by letter, 220. Total,
373. Of these there remain 238. There are on record 131
infant baptisms. One hundred church members have depart-
ed this life. One hundred and thirty marriages have been
solemnized by me. The amount taken up for charitable
objects, also by legacies, subscriptions, etc., is at least $24,000,
five thousand of which is a legacy of the late Alfred Bishop
to the American Bible Society, and one thousand a recent
donation by his widow to found a permanent scholarship in
the Literary and Theological Institute at East Windsor.'

" The second pastor, the Rev. Asahel L. Brooks, was
installed January 25, 1854, and continued thus a little over
two years, he being dismissed March 11, 1856, during which
time there was a gain of 37 members. His removal to an-
other field of labor was much regretted by the church and
society. He died recently at the residence of his son in New
Jersey.

" The Rev. Benjamin L. Swan succeeded Mr. Brooks as
acting pastor, and his ministry of two and a half years was
very acceptable to the church and congregation. He left the
church with twenty-nine members more than when he began
his labors with it.
42

646 History of Stratford.

" The fourth pastor, the Rev. Alexander R. Thompson,
entered upon his labors March i, 1859, ^"d continued here
for three years. In the summer of i860 two mission Sunday
schools were established, through the instrumentality of Mr.
Thompson, one in East Bridgeport in the old carriage factory
on William street, which proved very successful and which,
it is believed, resulted finally in the present large Congrega-
tional Church of East Bridgeport. The other school was
among the colored children in the lower part of the city,
formerly called " Liberia." This was successfully sustained
some time.

" In the autumn of i860 the old church was removed to a
vacant lot on the opposite side of the street and the founda-
tion for the present edifice was laid. Notwithstanding the
calamities of the civil war, which soon began, this work went
forward and the new church was dedicated January 20, 1862,
the sermon being preached by the Rev. R. S. Storrs, D.D., of
Brooklyn. Mr. Thompson's able and earnest preaching filled
the old and the new house with attentive listeners, and his
many labors of love in the church and in the whole commun-
ity are still fresh in the recollections of the people."

" Mr. Thompson was succeeded by the Rev. Francis
Lobdell, who was installed in April, 1863, and dismissed
February, 1865. During his labors, in February, 1864, the
Rev. E. P. Hammond held services with this church and
fifty-three members were added. The same year a heavy
debt on the church and society was removed by the generous
subscriptions received.

" In the spring the Rev. Daniel Lord was invited to
become, and in May, 1865, was installed pastor of this church
and society. He resigned in April, 1869, to accept the pas-
torate of a church in Chicago. He left the church in a pros-
perous condition.

" The next pastor, the Rev. Edwin Johnson, was installed
in November, 1870. His labors were blessed of God, and
many were added to the church. He resigned his charge in

^2 Some special account of a number of men who went from this church in the
civil war will be found in the war record of Bridgeport.

Bridgeport. 647

November, 1876, after a faithful and successful ministry of six
years.

"The present pastor, the Rev. R. G. S. McNeille, was
installed December 4, 1877, the Rev. Dr. Noble, of New
Haven, preaching the sermon. The following- summer our
pastor was absent about four months on a tour in Europe, and
on his return gave two courses of very interesting lectures
on Northern Italy, the proceeds being for the ladies' sewing
society."

In the summer of 1879 this church edifice was repaired,
with considerable alterations and adornments, at a cost of
over seven thousand dollars. Alterations and improvements,
also, in the chapel were made at the expense and under the
direction of the ladies of the church, at a cost of over three
thousand dollars.

The present pastor of the church is the Rev. R. G. S.
McNeille, and the following have been or are deacons: Wil-
liam DeForest, chosen in 1830, died in 1853 ; Stephen Haw-
ley, chosen in 1830, resigned in 1842; Josiah B. Baldwin,
chosen in 1830, resigned in 1841 ; Sherwood Sterling, chosen
in 1833, died in 1869; Harvey Higby, chosen in 1841, died
May 29, 1875; George Sterling, chosen in 1847, died Septem-
ber 8, 1871 ; Thomas Lord, chosen in 1867, resigned November
4, 1870 ; Edward Sterling, chosen in 1867 ; Edward W. Marsh,
chosen in 1867; William E. Brown, chosen in 1867, died

November 15, 1873; Joel Blakeslee, chosen ; Thomas

Calef, chosen November 5, 1875 ; Leonard Wood, chosen
February 28, 1883, died February 6, 1886. Superintendent
of the Sunday school, Edward W. Marsh; assistant superin-
tendents, A. H. Warner, Miss Sarah L. Baldwin.

The First I^resbytericm Church of Bridgeport was
constituted October 16, 1853, at which time eighty-two per-
sons, who had previously obtained letters of dismissal from
the Second Congregational Church, entered into covenant
and resolved to connect themselves with the Presbytery of
New York. Dr. Hewit, who had received, at his request,
letters of dismissal from the consociation, was admitted to the
Presbytery of New York, October 19, 1853, and the Presby-

648 History of Stratford.

tery met at Bridgeport the same month — October 31 — and
took the church under its care, and installed Dr. Hewit its
pastor. In i860 this church was transferred to the Presbytery
of Connecticut, and in 1870 to the Presbytery of Westchester,
to which it still belongs. The services of installation were held
in the Second Congregational Church edifice. At the instal-
lation of the pastor the following persons were ordained and
installed ruling elders: Stephen Hawley, Thomas Hawley,
John Brooks, Henry M. Hine and Stiles M. Middlebrook.

On February i the chapel on Myrtle avenue was dedi-
cated, having cost about three thousand dollars. The church
adjoining, on the corner of Myrtle avenue and West Liberty
street, was dedicated August 8, 1855, and cost $28,000. The
lot on which the church and chapel stood was the gift of
Capt. John Brooks and Capt. Burr Knapp.

From this time Dr. Hewit labored, as usual, with much
success until failing strength made it necessary that he should
have a colleague, and hence the Rev. H. G. Hinsdale, from
Germantown, Pa., and formerly of New York City, was
installed pastor October 28, 1862. Upon this, or soon after,
Dr. Hewit insisted on being relieved from any responsibility
in the pulpit except by invitation.

Nathaniel Hewit, D,D.f was born in New London, Ct.,
August 28, 1788, and graduated at Yale College in 1808,
licensed to preach September 24, 181 1, and afterwards studied
theology at Andover. He was installed, in his first charge,
pastor of the Presbyterian Church at Plattsburgh, N. Y., July
5, 181 5. The severity of the climate necessitated his resigna-
tion, and he was dismissed October 2, 1817, and on the 14th
of the next January was installed pastor of the Congregational
Church at Fairfield, Conn., where he labored ten years with
much success. He was a strong advocate of temperance, and
in 1827 was engaged in the service of the American Temper-
ance Society, and lectured in the principal cities of Connecti-
cut, Rhode Island, New York and Pennsylvania, and organized
many temperance societies. After great success as a temper-
ance lecturer and organizer three years, he was installed on
December i, 1830, pastor of the Second Congregational

yy^aJf'^'^^^^

Bridgeport. 649

Church of Bridgeport. He sailed for London, where he
arrived June 28, 1831, and delivered an address in Exeter
Hall the next evening, and on the 19th of July assisted in the
formation of the British and Foreign Temperance Society.
He visited Paris and afterwards delivered addresses in Lon-
don, Birmingham and Liverpool. In the autumn of the same
year he returned to Bridgeport and assumed his pastoral
duties and continued for more than twenty years to serve
successfully this church, his fame and influence as a theolo-
gian augmenting with every year's labor.

In 1853 a division arose in his congregation in regard to
procuring him an associate. A large number withdrew and
formed the First Presbyterian Church, to which they called
their "old, revered, and beloved pastor, whose ministrations
they could not consent to forego." He was dismissed from
his former charge September 21, and October 31 was installed
over the latter, where " he continued to preach the Word and
feed the flock of God" till nearl}^ fourscore years of age.

Dr. Hewit was twice married. His first wife, Miss
Rebecca Hillhouse, of New Haven, died January 4, 1831.
His second wife, Miss Susan Eliot, of Fairfield, died May i,

1857.

In the fall of 1858, having arrived at the age of seventy
years, he tendered his resignation, which his people refused
to accept. Four years later, April i, 1862, he released his
salary to the congregation, and in August of the same year
Rev. Horace G. Hinsdale was called as associate pastor. To
this colleague and successor he cordially handed over his
charge, preaching occasionally, until on Sabbath morning,
February 3, 1867, he "fell asleep."

Of the three children who survived him, one, Henry S.
Hewit, M.D., late surgeon of the Army of the Cumberland,
has since died ; another son, Rev. Augustus F. Hewit, is one
of the Paulist Fathers of New York; the other, Sarah, the
widow of the late William S. Bowen, M.D., surgeon U. S. N.,
resides in New Haven.

A marble tablet to his memory, which was destroyed
when the church edifice was burned in 1874, has been replaced
in the new sanctuary by a handsome memorial baptismal font

650 History of Stratford.

of carved stone, the gift of the children of the Sunday school.
To a memorial discourse delivered on the occasion of his
funeral, February 6, 1867, by Rev. Lyman H. Atwater, D.D.,
of Princeton, N. J., we are indebted for much of the foregoing
sketch. Of him it may be well said, —

" He being dead yet speaketh."'''

In the autumn of 1872 an organ was placed in the church
at an expense of nearly $5,000.

In 1873 the chapel was taken down and a new one, cost-
ing $ii,ooa, was erected, and the work of enlarging the
church organ, already one of the finest in New England, and
putting a new roof on the church, amounting to about $6,000,
was also accomplished.

These and other improvements were not quite completed
when, on Wednesday evening, December 9, 1874, both church
and chapel, with all their contents, were destroyed by fire,
probably occasioned by the careless use of candles by a work-
man. The burning steeple, 227 feet in height, was a brilliant
spectacle. The loss upon the buildings and their contents
amounted to $70,000, the insurance being $35,000. Resolu-
tions of condolence and tenders of the use of their several
edifices were made by most of the other churches in Bridge-
port, but the church preferred to occupy the opera house,
corner of State and Main streets, for a season. Owing to the
liberality of Capt. Brooks and other members of the society,
rebuilding was promptly commenced. The old site was sold
and the present one on the corner of State street and Myrtle
avenue was purchased, and the work commenced April 28,
1875, and on the 12th of October, 1876, the new church was
dedicated, it having cost, including chapel, organ and furni-
ture, about $94,000. With the new and advantageous facili-
ties the people were encouraged and the work of the church
prospered.

In October, 1877, Mr. Hinsdale was dismissed by the
Presbytery to accept a call to the pastorate of the Presbyte-
rian Church at Princeton, N. J. He was succeeded February
14, 1878, by the Rev. H. A. Davenport, who is at present a

'^ From a historical sermon by the Rev. Horace G. Hinsdale.

S-y "eyMll mils Sms. ITco J^rh

Mi/

Bridgeport. 650^

Capt. John Brooks, son of John Brooks, Senior, died at his residence
263 Main Street in Bridgeport, at eight o'clock A. M., December 7, 1881, at the
advanced age of eighty-six years, having been a prominent figure in the com-
munity over seventy years. His father, also a prominent man of his time, died
January 17, 1862, at the great age of ninety seven years, so that the son was
known as John Brooks, Jr., until he himself was a veteran in years as well as
experience. He was born in East Bridgeport, the son of Capt. John and Mary
Coe Brooks, September 18, 1795, at which time there were but ten houses on the
east side of the harbor. For his education he received the advantages of the dis-
trict school and of the Stratford Academy, of which the distinguished David Plant,
afterward Lieutenant-Governor, was preceptor. At the age of fifteen years he
went to New York to live with John Vanderbilt, and the next year, 1811, entered
th« store of Gershom Smith, grocer, in Peck Slip, as clerk, but soon found he had
mistaken his calling, and on the breaking out of the war of 1812, came home.
His father being a seafaring man, he early imbibed a fondness for the water and
acquired skill as a boatman. That he was a born leader is evident from the fact
that at the early age of eighteen years he was given charge of a vessel, as well as
from his subsequent history, which was that of a popular and successful
steamboat commander. His life career is outlined as follows : He first sailed
the sloop "Arab" in 1813, from Bridgeport to New York, the sloop " Intrepid "
in 1814, the sloop "Patriot" in 1815, the sloop "Mary Ann" in 1816. On
October 14, 1817, he married Mary, daughter of Zalmon Hawley, who survived
him, and in the same year entered into a co-partnership with Isaac Sherman, Esq.,
occupying a store on Water Street, Mr. Sherman attending the store and Capt.
Brooks sailing the sloop "Mary Ann" as a regular packet to and from New
York until 1822. Esquire Sherman, in his reminiscences, speaks in warm terms
of his agreeable relations with Capt. Brooks, and of his many acts of kindness to
himself and family.

In 1824, he took charge of the steamboat "John Marshall," plying between
New York and Norwalk, Bridgeport passengers being taken to Norwalk by
stage. The next year he was transfered to the steamer " United States," running
between New Haven and New York, and soon after to the " S. B. Hudson," a fine
boat built by Montgomery Livingston, and run on the same route.

In 1826 and 1827 he commanded the steamer " Franklin " and the " Governor
Wolcott," on the Hudson river. At this period he made the acquaintance of
Capt. Cornelius Vanderbilt, which ripened into a warm and life-long friendship,
and contributed largely to his prosperity. An incident connected with their busi-
ness relations is worthy of special notice. While Capt. Brooks was running one
of Cornelius Vanderhilt's boats, Mr. Vanderbilt made arrangements for and
insisted on Sunday trips. Capt. Brooks at once resigned his position. This
occurred when he was a young man, dependent entirely upon his own labor for
livelihood. From his knowledge of Mr. Vanderhilt's character, he had no doubt
that all business relations between them were at an end, but he was true to his
religious principles and convictions of duty at whatever cost, and certainly the
cost did seem great. After a short interval, however, Mr. Vanderbilt invited him
to return to his service, with total exemption from Sunday duty, with advanced
position and better pay than before, which is an instance where sturdy adherence
to the right was openly rewarded ; and that too by a man who then made no pre-
tentions to a religious character.

Subsequently, Capt. Brooks commanded the " Emerald," running between
New York and Norwalk, the " Bellona" and " Thistle," to New Brunswick, N.J.

6^od History of Stratford.

and the "Ansonia" and " Nimrod," to Norwalk, Bridgeport and Birmingham.
The "Nimrod" was sold in 1864, during the war, for transportation purposes,
and this closed his long career upon the water.

Capt. Brooks was appreciated byhis fellow citizens in civil life, as is evident
from the offices to which he was elected by their suflFrages. The first office held by
him under the city government was membership on the Board of Relief, to which
he was successively elected in 1851, '52 and '53. On October 20, 1857, he was
elected Mayor of the City, to fill a vacancy. On the 7th of October, 1864, he was
again elected Mayor. He was elected Alderman April 2, 1866, and appointed by
the Common Council Superintendent of Docks and Wharves, May 7, 1866. Polit.
ically, he was a decided republican from the organization of that party. Previous
to that he acted with the Whig party. He naturally took great interest in Bridge-
port harbor, watched its currents and the changes they wrought. In 1830-133
there was but five feet of water at low tide on the outer bar, and the larger vessels
had to be lighted to get in and out. The steamers were compelled often to wait
for the rising tide. He petitioned Congress, which resulted in an appropriation,
and the channel was deepened, but the "ditch" was narrow and needed a light.
Another successful petition was promoted by him, and a temporary light was
provided, and afterwards the present substantial light-house was built. His
observations suggested the breakwater and that was constructed, and he was also
largely influential in the location and construction of the lighthouse on Penfield
Reef, all most necessary and useful improvements.

Capt. Brooks and his wife, Maria Brooks, united with the First Congrega-
tional Church, October 7, 1821. At the division of the church in 1830, they were
of the number who were dismissed to form the Second or South Church. Here
he was the faithful ally and helper of that great and good man, Nathaniel Hewit,
D.D. At that period Dr. Hewit was opposed to the employment of the organ in
church music, but did not object to Capt. Brooks' violin nor even a second one.
The South Church choir was famous for number, volume and drill. For quite a
period Capt. Brooks brought up from New York the celebrated professor, Thomas
Hastings, to instruct this choir. At the organization of the First Presbyterian
Church, October 31, 1853, under the leadership of Dr. Hewit, he was ordained a
ruling elder and was active in all church work, living the life of a faithful Chris-
tian man. The growth and prosperity of this church have been largely due to his
large financial contributions. He, with the late Capt. Burr Knapp, gave the land
on the corner of Myrtle Avenue and West Liberty Street, on which the first house
of worship was erected, and when that building was destroyed by fire, December
9, 1874, he, although sick at the time, said the same evening: " We shall begin
to rebuild before the bricks are cold." The present beautiful edifice was largely
due to his efforts. He headed the subscription with a handsome sum, and when
a few years later an effort was made to pay a debt of about $30,000, he subscribed
more than one-third of the whole sum, and the entire amount was secured in less
than a week. His characteristic Christian benevolence was wont to find an outlet
through the church, but many citizens, not church members, in the humbler walks
of life, can testify to his large-hearted, open-handed assistance in times of need.

He had no children, and after providing in his will for sundry bequests and
legacies to relatives and friends, he left the balance of his estate to be forever
appropriated to Christian and benevolent uses. His aged widow survived him
about four years and was then gently called to join him in the spirit world. She
also left all her estate for religious and benevolent uses.

Bridgeport. 651

successful pastor of the church. The late Mrs. Mary Bishop
was one of the most liberal benefactors of this church, having
subscribed largely to build it and also to cancel the debt
incurred in its erection.

Ruling Elders in the First Presbyterian Church :

Stephen Hawley, ordained October 31, 1853, died November
4, 1861.

Thomas Hawley, ordained October 31, 1853, dismissed Octo-
ber 26, 1 86 1.

John Brooks, ordained October 31, 1853, died December 7,
1881.

Stiles M. Middlebrook, ordained October 31, 1853, dismissed
February 10, 1878.

Henry M. Hine, ordained October 31, 1853, dismissed in June,
1879.

Egbert Marsh, elected in April, i860, dismissed February 10,
1878.

David F, Hollister, elected in April, i860.

Alexander Wheeler, elected December, 1878.

Alexander Lane, elected December, 1878.

Richard H. Townsend, elected December, 1878.

Mev, Henry Adolplitis Daveiipovt is a native of
Stamford, Conn., and descended in a direct line from the
first minister at New Haven. He was educated at VVilliston
Seminary, Amherst College, Mass., and the Union Theolog-
ical Seminary of New York City, a part of which time
he was engaged in teaching. He was ordained in June,
1873, and preached four and a half years in a chapel of the
Fifth Avenue Reformed Church of New York City. He was
installed pastor of the Presbyterian Church of Bridgeport
Februar}^ 14, 1878, and is serving this parish at present, as
also heretofore, with much credit and faithfulness. The
membership of this church numbers 300, and the Sunday
school 350.

The German Reformed Church was organized Octo-
ber I, i860, the Rev. Andrew Schroeder being pastor from
i860 to 1864. In 1868 the church was reorganized, having

652 History of Stratford.

for their pastor the Rev. Caspar Brunner, who still continues
in that office with good success. In the same year the society
purchased the Polanna Chapel, standing on State street,
nearly opposite Myrtle avenue, which they occupied until
the beginning of the year 1883, when they sold this property,
purchased another site on Congress street near Main, running
through to Chapel street, and built upon it a church edifice
and parsonage, both of brick, at an expense of about $20,000.
The membership numbers about 150, having made good pro-
gress during the short time since their organization.

Christ Church (Episcopal). — The call for the first
meeting of " persons interested in the formation of a new
parish in this city," was read by the rector of St. John's
Church August 3, 1850, and a meeting of such persons was
appointed for Tuesday evening, August 6, at the vestry room
of St. John's Church. A meeting was holden at that time
and place, at which Charles Bostwick presided and John S.
Smith was secretary. At a meeting holden August 13, 1850,
a resolution was passed " that a Parish of the Protestant
Episcopal Church be formed," and the name " Parish of
Christ Church" was formally adopted. On August 16, 1850,
the parish organized by the election of the following officers:
Senior Warden, Charles Bostwick; Junior Warden, Russell
Tomlinson ; Vestry, Charles B. Ferguson, Chauncey M. Hatch,
Charles M. Booth, Samuel Stratton, Aaron T. Beardsley,
Philip B. Segee ; Treasurer, Henry Shelton ; Clerk, John S.
Smith.

The first rector was the Rev. J. Howard Smith, who was
called November 7, 1850, and who was rector till April, 1854.
During this time the land was bought for the present church
on Courtland street, the corner stone of which was laid on
Good Friday, April 9, 1852. The building committee were
Stephen Tomlinson, S. B. Fergurson, and Aaron T. Beardsley.
The church edifice was completed in 1853, and was consecra-
ted by Bishop Thomas Church Brownell, on the 21st day of
April of that year. It is built of brown stone, and cost about
$32,000.

The rectors succeeding Mr. Smith have been as follows :

Bridgeport, 653

the Rev. William Preston, 1854-1856; Rev. George E. Thrall,
1856-1859; Rev. L. W. Bancroft, 1860-1861 ; Rev. Henry M.
Stewart, 1861-1863 ; Rev. John Falkner Blake — subsequently
John Blake Falkner, 1863-1870; Rev. John J. Harrison, April
12, 1870-November 28, 1870; Rev. N. L. Briggs, 1871-1875;
Rev. Dr. H. N. Powers, 1875-1885 ; Rev. Beverly E. Warner,
1885, present incumbent. During its existence the following
have at different times been Wardens of the church : Charles
Bostwick,* S. B. Fergurson,* Russell Toralinson,* P. H.
Skidmore, S. S. Clapp,* Clapp Spooner, L. W. Clark, Daniel
Hatch,* George C. Waldo, William H. Noble, George Hun-
ger. Those marked with an asterisk are deceased. The
Parish Clerks have been : John S. Smith, R. T. Clark, Robert
C. Booth, John S. Beers (eight 3'ears), J. B. Hay, M. H. Tom-
linson, Edwin Hurd, D. W. Kissam, L. M. Segee (five years),
S. R. Tomlinson, Charles W. McCord. The church chapel,
in the rear of the church, was erected in 1867 at a cost of
about nine thousand dollars. During the rectorship of the
Rev. M. Briggs the brick block on Courtland street opposite
the church, and in which was the residence of the rector, was
burned, and many of the parish records and papers were lost.
Among these was the roll of the parish, containing upwards
of three hundred families. At the parish meeting for 1885-6,
held on April 9, the following officers were elected : Senior
Warden, John McCord (Mr. McCord subsequently declined
and William H. Noble was chosen in his place); Junior War-
den, George Munger; Vestry, L. W. Clark, George C. Waldo,
S. F. Raymond, H. H. Pyle, Clapp Spooner, F. M. Wilson,
C. B. Hotchkiss, L. N. Van Keuren, A. B. Beers, John
McCord, C. F. Wood, S. B. Beardsley, George Richardson,
P. B. Segee, S. W. Ely, R. T. Whiting, S. S. Jarvis, A. J.
Cable, John North, C. W. McCord, Blaise Soules, C. S. Lup-
ton, C. R. Brothwell, A. H. Doolittle, John M. Wheeler,
H. C. Fairchild ; Treasurer, L. N. Van Keuren ; Clerk, Charles
W. McCord.

It will be seen that but one of these gentlemen, P. B.
Segee, was a member of the original vestry at the founding
of the parish. The church, in point of ecclesiastical polity,
might be called a low, broad church, and its membership has

654 History of Stratford.

been largely drawn from the liberal portion of the community.
It has a large and flourishing Sunday school, which has
always been an important adjunct to its work and a source
of strength. It has also a very active Ladies' Aid Society,
which is constant in work of a charitable and helpful char-
acter. Since the loss of the parish records no census has
been taken of the membership, but the present rector, Mr.
Warner, is engaged in compiling one. The church is the
most centrally located Episcopal church in Bridgeport and
the parish is a large and able one.

The church has suffered severely by death in the last
fifteen years. Beside those marked above among its wardens
as deceased, there have died of its prominent members, I. H.
Whiting, Frederick Wood, Benjamin Ray, George Keeler,
and Samuel Titus.

Horatio Nelson Powers^ D.Z>., was born in Amenia,
Duchess Co., N. Y., prepared for college at the Amenia
Seminary, graduated at Union College, Schenectady, studied
theology in the General Theological Seminary, New York,
and was ordained in Trinity Church, New York, July i, 1855.
He served as assistant to the Rev. Dr. Samuel Bowman, St.
James's, Lancaster, Pa., till the spring of 1857, when he mar-
ried Clemence Emma, only daughter of Prof. Francis Fauvel
Gouraud, of the University of France, and removed to Dav-
enport, Iowa. He resided there as rector of St. Luke's
Church, and afterwards as President of Griswold College,
till the fall of 1868, when he accepted a call to St. John's
Church, Chicago, where, in addition to his ministerial rela-
tions, he was a Regent of the Chicago University, President
of the Foundling's Home, Corresponding Secretary of the
Chicago Literary Club, of which he was one of the founders,
and a lecturer before the Athenaeum. In November, 1875, he
took charge of Christ Church, Bridgeport. His connection
with this parish terminated October, 1885. In Bridgeport
he was president and one of the founders of the Scientific
Society. He is an honorary member of several learned bod-
ies, and a Fellow of the Clarendon Historical Society, of
Edinburgh, Scotland. Dr. Powers received the degree of

Bridgeport. 655

D.D. from his Alma Mater in 1867. He has contributed,
either in prose or verse, to most of the prominent periodicals
in the country, such as the "Centur}-," "Harper's Magazine,"
" Lippincott's," " International Review," " Literary World,"
New York "Evening Post," " The Independent," "Round
Table," " The Critic," " The Chicago Dial." He has also
been the American contributor to "-LArt,'' the great art
journal of France. His books are " Through the Year," pub-
lished by Roberts Brothers ; poems " Early and Late," Jan-
sen, McClurg (S: Co.; and "A Brief Biography of William
Cullen Bryant," Appleton & Co. He has been fortunate in
his friendships; Philip Gilbert Hamerton dedicated to him
his beautiful work, "The Unknown River," and presented
him with two of his admirable oil paintings — the only ones
by this artist and critic in America. He was on intimate
terms with Bryant and Bayard Taylor. Specimens of Dr.
Powers' poetry are found in nearly all the important collec-
tions of the American poets — Bryant's, Longfellow's, Epes
Sargent's, Stoddard's, Piatt's, F. F. Brown's, etc.

C W, deL, KicholSf candidate for Holy Orders from
Christ Church parish, is connected, through his father's fam-
ily, with some of the most distinguished Episcopal clergymen
of the diocese, including the last one who went to Scotland
for Orders and the first one who was ordained in the United
States. Mr. Nichols has had an unusually advantageous
preparation for the study of divinity. He graduated from
the classical department of Williston Seminary, Easthampton,
Mass., in 1874, with high honors. Mr. Nichols was afterwards
bred at the Johns Hopkins University, besides having spent
many years elsewhere in general culture. For two years he
was instructor in metaphysics and English literature in the
preparatory department of Seabury Divinity School, under
Bishop Whipple, at Faribault, Minnesota, until in the year
1884 he entered the General Theological Seminary at New
York, where he is at present studying. Mr. Nichols is also
familiar with philosophical circles in various parts of the
country, and has written articles on philosophic, historic
and literary themes.

656 History of Stratford.

Trinity Cliurch,, Sridgepovt. — This parish was organ-
ized June I, 1863, and was admitted into union with the Con-
vention of the Diocese of Connecticut, June 10, 1863. A
hall on the second floor of the New York and New Haven
Railroad depot was quickly and tastefully prepared for tera-
*porary occupancy by the parish, and in it the first service
was held on Sunday, June 14, 1863. The corner-stone of the
church, on the corner of Fairfield avenue and Broad street,
was laid on the 2d of November in the same year. The
edifice was finished in the following spring and early sum-
mer, services began to be held in it Sunday, July 3, 1864, and
it was consecrated by the Right Reverend John Williams,
D.D., Assistant Bishop of Connecticut, on Wednesday, Nov-
ember 2, 1864. It is a substantial building of brown stone
from the Portland quarries, Gothic — of the early English
period — in its style of architecture, and has a seating capacity
of six hundred.

The parish was formed by members from St. John's
Church, Bridgeport. Sixty families took part in its organi-
zation. Its motive was this, viz : a desire to work for the
Saviour's glory and to advance His Kingdom — a Kingdom of
righteousness, mercy, truth, honor and charity. It has en-
joyed nearly a quarter of a century of unbroken harmony and
of quiet and steady growth, and is now one of the first par-
ishes in the Diocese. It has had thus far but one rector, the
Rev. Sylvester Clarke, who was born at Newtown, in this
county, was ordained to the ministry in 1858, and became
rector of the church in Oxford, Conn., com.ing from that par-
ish to Bridgeport in March, 1861. Hon. Jarratt Morford has
been the Senior Warden of this parish since its organization.
Its Junior Wardens have been as follows : Ira Gregory, Esq.,*
1863-1883, Hon. E. B. Goodsell,* 1883-1884, Hon. D. N.
Morgan, 1885, now serving.

Trinity lleinorial Chnrchf West Stratford, is a

mission of Trinity Church, Bridgeport. On the 20th of
September, 1871, the first of a series of Wednesday evening
services was held at the residence of Silas Scofield, Esq.,
Newfield district. On the following Sunday, September 24,
in the common school house of the same district, a Sunday

Bridgeport. 657

school was begun. The corner-stone of a chapel was laid by
Bishop Williams, November 29, 1871. This building was fin-
ished in the May succeeding. It is of wood, cost about $6,000,
and will seat nearly 300 persons. The first service in it was
that of the holy communion on Sunday morning (Whit Sun-
day), May 19, 1872. It is a memorial of the Rev. Gurdon
Saltonstall Coit, D.D., twenty-eight years rector of St. John's
Church, Bridgeport. At the present time about 40 families
are connected with this mission, and it has an interesting
Sunday school of 85 members.

The Church of the Nativity (Episcopal), a very pic-
turesque stone building located on Sylvan avenue and Carson
street, was erected mainly at the expense of the Rev. E. F.
Bishop, of Bridgeport, with some assistance from Joseph
Richardson, of North Bridgeport. Previous to this a mis-
sion school had been maintained by members of St. John's
Church, Bridgeport, in a small building belonging to the
woolen mills, then under the proprietorship of Nathaniel
Green. E. F. Bishop officiated as lay reader, under the
direction of the rector of St. John's Church, the Rev. Gurdon
S. Coit, from the time he was licensed to that office by the
Rt. Rev. Thomas C. Brownell, Bishop of Connecticut, Nov-
ember 21, 1856.

This church was organized June 4, 1856, the persons
present being Mr. Bishop, Joseph Richardson, Eli Thompson,
Ira Gregory, John Hurd, William M. Hubbell, and Henry
M. Sherman, all laymen of St. John's Church. The sittings
have always been free, and the service choral. The services
have been conducted much of the time by Mr. Bishop himself.
Rev. Gurdon S. Coit, D.D., held the rectorship until 1863 or
4. Mr. Bishop, having been ordained deacon May 21, i860,
and priest September 22, 1863, by the Rt. Rev. John Wil-
liams, assistant bishop of the diocese, was elected to the rec-
torship, being assisted at various times by the Rev. H. C.
Stowell, the Rev. Charles H. W. Stocking, D.D., the Rev.
O. L. Prescott, the Rev. Joseph W. Hill, until 1872, when the
Rev. Henry Darby was elected rector and held it, nominally,
until 1884, though much of the time he was absent from the
charge. The services were carried on during this time partly

658 History of Stratford.

by the priests of St. John the Evangelist, with which society
he was at first connected ; then by the Rev. D. Lounsbury,
and Lewis W. Wells, D.D. Mr. Bishop frequently officiated
here until near the time of his decease, December 7, 1883.

A choral service in this part of the country, at the time
it was started in this place, was a new thing and called forth
much comment.

On the day of the consecration of this church the bishop
and clergy having returned to dine with Mr. Bishop at his
home, were listening to the amusing incident which was
being related by some one at the table, that an owl had
obtained an entrance into the church in some way and lodged
itself among the beams so securely that it required much
trouble to eject it before the service began. Much merri-
ment was excited by Mr. Bishop's mother (who was a Presby-
terian) pithily remarking that " Perhaps it came in to make
the responses."

The First Methodist Episcopal Church of Bridge-
port.— In 1784 William Black, a preacher of the Methodist
church in Nova Scotia, visited the United States for the
purpose of consulting Dr. Coke and procuring assistance.
He traveled by way of Boston, Mass., where he preached
twice. He met Dr. Coke in Maryland and, either on his way
thither or when returning, he preached several times in the
Congregational Church in Stratfield, then standing at what is
the corner of North and Park avenues. The impression made
by his preaching was at first favorable, but upon a discovery
of his Arminian theology he was pronounced a wolf in sheep's
clothing. In one sermon, while preaching, he was interrupted
by the pastor of the church, who stamped upon the floor and
declared his doctrine to be damnable.'" He was the first
Methodist preacher known to have visited the State of
Connecticut or New England. There is evidence that his
preaching had good results, for, according to Rev. Jesse Lee
(memoirs, page no), a desire was thereby awakened for the
ministrations of Methodism. About the same time, or soon
after a number of persons began to assemble for the purpose

'3 Rev. Robert Ross.

Bridgeport. 659

of social religious exercises. Among those who thus assem-
bled were a Mrs. Wells and a Mrs. Wheeler, both living at
the south end of Park avenue,'^ then called Mutton Lane.

In May, 1789, a Methodist conference was held in the
city of New York, where Jesse Lee, the pioneer of New
England Methodism, was appointed to the Stamford circuit,
which appears to have included the greater part of the State
lying west of the Connecticut river. On the 17th of June,
1789, he preached his first sermon in the State under a tree
at Norwalk.'^ June i8th he rode to Fairfield and preached in
the Court House at 6 o'clock in the evening to about forty
persons. He stopped over night at a public house kept by a
Mr. Penfield. The next morning Mrs. Penfield, who heard
him preach, gave him a note of introduction to her sister,
Mrs. Wheeler of Park avenue, representing her as interested
in the subject of religion, and desiring him to call on her.

While Mr. Lee was approaching the place Mrs. Wells was
at the house of Mrs. Wheeler on a visit, and the two were in
conversation upon the religious interests of the neighborhood.
Just at the moment of his arrival that conversation became
a point of extraordinary interest. Mrs. Wells told Mrs.
Wheeler that on the preceding night she had dreamed that
a man rode up to a house where she was, got off his horse,
took his saddle-bags on his arm, and, walking directly into
the house, said : " I am a minister of the Gospel of Jesus
Christ, and am come to preach to the people of this place.
If you will call your neighbors together 1 will preach to
them to-night." Then Mrs. Wells said she retained so per-
fect a recollection of the man's face and general appearance
that she would certainly know him if she should ever see him.
While she was yet speaking she looked out the window and
exclaimed, " Why, there is the man now !" Mr. Lee rode up,
dismounted, took his saddle-bags on his arm, entered the
house, and addressing the women, said: " I am a minister of

^•* No. 3, on page 505.

'^ " The Rev. Cornelius Cook preached the first Methodist sermon in Norwalk,
near the New Canaan parish line, in 1787 ; the Rev. Jesse Lee preached the next
sermon on the 17th of June, 1789, in the highway, near the centre of the town." —
Hall's History of Norwalk, lyo.

66o History of Stratford.

the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and have come to preach to the
people of this place. If you will call your neighbors together
I will preach to them to-night." Mrs. Wells was so deeply
affected as to be scarcely able to stand. Mr. Lee was wel-
comed, the neighbors were called together, Mr. Lee preached
to them, and tradition says three conversions was the result,
and that two of them were Mrs. Wells and Mrs. Wheeler.
This service was held in the old yellow house on the south
end and east side of Park avenue, on the 19th of June, 1789.

After visiting other places in the State Mr. Lee preached
on the 3d of July at the house of Deacon Elijah Hawley, at
Stratfield, and on the 5th of August preached again at the
same house, though in the latter entry in his journal it is said
to have been at Newfield. The house is still standing on the
northwest corner of Thomas and Water streets. On the 14th
of August Mr. Lee was again in this vicinity and preached at
the house of Mr. Wells. The nucleus of the first Methodist
society in this neighborhood, and, it is believed, the first in
New England, consisted of a class organized by Mr. Lee
September 26, 1789, in a house which stood on Toilsome
Hill, on the west side of the highway, and hence in Fairfield.
The three persons composing the class were Mrs. Wells, Miss
Ruth Hall her sister, and a Mrs. Risley. These all died in
great peace, within the memory of persons now connected
with this church.

In 1790 Mr. Lee was made Presiding Elder of the New
England work, but at that time the districts had no name,
and scarcely any limits. The name of the circuit including
this region of country was called Fairfield, and it extended
to several townships. Redding being one of them. In this
neighborhood preaching was held on week-day evenings,
somewhat regularly, at the four following places: at Stephen
Wells', on Division street, at widow Nichols', on Pequonnock
Green, Ebenezer Brown's, on Toilsome Hill, at Father Pen-
field's, on Holland Hill, the house being occupied now, or
recently, by Lewis Penfield. In 1797 a Methodist Church
was built on Division street road north of Toilsome Hill at
the corners of the roads about three miles north of the pres-
ent North avenue. The late Dea. David Sherwood, who died
January 24, 1873, aged 94 years, was at the raising of this

Bridgeport. 66l

church, being then eighteen years of age. This statement
was made by Dea. Sherwood to Dea. R. B. Lacey and others,
and written down at the time for permanent record. After
1797 preaching was held, probabl}', most regularly at the new
meeting house on Toilsome Hill, until 181 5. During this
early stage of this church the Conference, Circuit, Presiding
Elders, and Preachers were:

1790. Jesse Lee, Presiding Elder, Fairfield circuit; John
Bloodgood, preacher.

1791. Nathaniel B. Mills and Aaron Hunt, preachers.

1792. Jacob Brush, P. E. ; Joshua Taylor and Smith Weeks,
preachers.

1793. Thomas Ware, P. E. ; Aaron Hunt and James Coleman,
preachers.

1794. George Roberts, P. E. ; Zebulon Kankey and Nicholas
Sneathan, preachers.

1795. The name of the circuit was changed to Redding;
George Roberts was P. E., and Daniel Dennison and
Timothy Dewey, preachers.

1796. There were two P. E's, Freeborn Garretson and Syl-
vester Hutchinson, dividmg all New England between
them. The preachers for Redding circuit were Elijah
Woblsey and Robert Leeds.

1797 to 1800. S. Hutchinson, P. E. ; preachers: 1797, David
Buck, Augustus Jocelyn ; 1798, William Thatcher; 1799,
David Brown.

1800. F. Garretson, P. E. ; Augustus Jocelyn, preacher.

1801. The ministers began to give names to the districts;
this circuit was in the New York district; F. Garretson,
P. E. ; S. Marvin, Isaac Candee, preachers.

1802. The same P. E. ; J. Coleman and \. Candee, preachers.

1803. The same P. E. ; James Campbell and N. W. Tompkins,
preachers.

1804 to 1807. Wm. Thatcher, P. E. ; preachers: 1804, P. Mo-
riarty and Sylvester Foster; 1805, P. Moriarty and S.
Mervvin ; 1806, Nathan Felch and Oliver Sj^kes.

1807 to 1810. Joseph Crawford, P. E. ; preachers: 1807, J- M.
Smith and Zalmon Lyon; 1808, Noble W. Thomas, J.

662 History of Stratford.

Lyon; 1809, Billy Hibbard and 1. Candee ; 1810, Nathan

Emory and John Russell.
181 1. Redding circuit was included in the Rhinebeck district.

Wm. Anson, P. E., two years; preachers: A. Hunt, O.

Sykes, J. Reynolds; 1812, S. Rowell, G. Lyon, S. Beach,
1813 to 1817. Nathan Bangs, P. E. ; preachers: A. Hunt and

Henry Eames ; 1814, E. Washburn and Reuben Harris;

1815, E. Woolsey and R. Harris; 1816, S. Bushnell and

John Boyd.

During this year the old Congregational meeting house
at Pequonnock was purchased for use by the Methodists, and
for about six years this was their gathering place for public
worship, the services by the conference ministers being held
on week-day evenings, unless some services were held on
Sundays at the old meeting house at the corner of the roads
on Toilsome Hill. During the year 1816 Benoni English and
Elisha P. Jacobs, who were not members of the conference,
preached on Sundays at the Pequonnock house.

1817. For the first time Bridgeport appears in the conference
minutes, meaning the old Pequonnock church.

1817 to 1821. Ebenezer Washburn, P. E. ; preacher, Aaron
Hunt, who being ill, Cyrus Silliman, a local preacher,
supplied; 1818, Bridgeport disappears from the minutes,
being connected with Stratford circuit, Samuel Bushnell,
preacher; 1819, S. Merwin, P. E. ; preachers: Bela Smith
and J. Coleman.

1822. The same P. E. ; the preachers being Laban Clark and
Eli Barnett. The Rev. John N. Maffit, the revivalist,
spent a portion of this year in this place, and from this
time preaching was discontinued in the old meeting house.

1823. Bridgeport again appears on the minutes with Wm. L
Pease as preacher. His pastoral care did not extend
beyond the township, and under his labors the first Meth-
odist church within the city limits was erected.

1824. Samuel Luckey, P. E. for three years; the preacher
being Humphrey Humphreys.

1825 and 6. Bridgeport was again connected with the Red-
ding circuit, the preachers being Marvin Richardson,
H. Humphreys and F. W. Sizer.

Bridgeport. 663

1827. Samuel Ostrander, P. E. ; preachers, Henry Stead and
John Lovejoy.

1828. Bridgeport was again connected with the Stratford
circuit.

1829. Laban Clark, P. E. ; the preachers were J. Lovejoy and
James H. Romer.

1830 and 31. The preachers were H. Bartlett and Charles
Sherman.

1832. Heman Bangs, P. E. ; preachers: S. Martindale and
Laban C. Cheney.

1833. Preachers: James Youngs and J. Tackerberry.

1834. Bridgeport becomes a permanent station on the min-
utes of the conference ; S. Martindale, P. E., and Davis
Stocking the preacher.

1835 and 6. Wm. Jewett, P. E., and Charles F. Pelton was the
preacher.

1837. Harmon D. Goslin was the preacher, but becoming ill,
J. W. Lefevre supplied the remaining part of the year.

1838. Daniel Smith, pastor, and Mr. Goslin died and was
buried here.

1839. Nicholas White, P. E. ; pastor, Daniel Smith.

1840 to 1844. Charles VV. Carpenter, P. E. ; the pastor in 1840
was John M. Pease; in 1841 and 2, Salmon C. Perry, and
in 1843 ^"d 4» John L. Gilder.

1844 to 1848. Laban Clark, P. E. ; pastors: 1845 ^nd 6, James
H. Perry; 1847, H. Bangs.

1848 to 1852. Heman Bangs, P. E. ; pastor in 1848 and 9,
George Brown. At the session of the general conference
held in 1848 the New York conference was divided, and
Bridgeport lay within the bounds of the New York East
conference, and during the second year of Mr. Brown's
pastorate the present church was erected. It is a very
commodious and appropriate edifice. In 1850 John B.
Stratton was pastor, and in 185 1 and 2, Edwin L. Janes.

1852 and 3. William H. Norris, P. E. ; pastor in 185;^ and 4,
Thomas G. Osborn.

1853 and 4. E. L. Janes, P. E. ; pastor in 1855 and 6, Charles
Fletcher. In 1856 Bridgeport gives name to a district in
the New York east conference.

664

History of Stratford.

1856 to i860. E. E. Griswold, P. E. ; pastor in 1857, John M.

Reid, and in 1859, William F. Collins.
i860 to 1863. William C. Hoyt, P. E. ; pastor in i860 and 61,

Albert Nash. During the pastorate of Mr. Nash there

was a reunion of the church, at which time the debt,

amounting to $8,000, was paid.

The following items of history are compiled from a sketch
prepared, and read on that occasion, by Mr. Nash:

"After the organization of the first class in 1789, I am
unable to give any satisfactory account of the members of the
society for thirty-four years. It is probable that there was no
register kept for a number of years, and that for several years
succeeding, it was found in connection with Redding circuit.
Under the labors of Mr. Maffit, in 1822, a class was formed in
the city proper. In 1823, about the time the first church was
erected here, we have a register of the persons then connected
with the society.'*

" " Nathaniel Ruggles,

local preacher,
Burr Penfield,
Stephen Wells,
Mary Wells,
Mar)' Edwards,
Julia Ruggles,
Silas Turney,
Polly Turney,
John P. McEwen,
Harriet McEvven,
James Penfield,
Mary Penfield,
Anna Turney.
Anna Wheeler,
Phoebe Nichols,
Catharine Nichols,
Hannah Penfield,
John W. Beardsley,
Betsey Porter,
Sarah Burritt,
Sophia Plumb,
Eliza Cable,
Harriet Gould,
Fanny Middlebrook,

Griswold Odell,
Elias A. Hall,
Chauncy Ward,
William Bardsley,
Ezra Morris,
Stephen Durand,
Esther Durand,
Phoebe Hawkins,
Mary Hildroup,
Betsey Downs,
Catharine Ufford,
Mary Ann Hopkins,
Samantha Mosure,
Sally S. Curtis,
Charles G. Brisco,
Charles H. Wakelee,
Susan Wakelee,
Stiles Nichols,
Ebenezer Brown,
Sail)' Green,
Harpin Blake,
Harriet Hubbell,
Hannah Morris,
Mary Baldwin,
Eliza Evitts,

Ann Cables,
Mary Ann Patchin,
William Daggett,
Ruth Edwards,
John Beardsley,
Marietta Wells,
Hannah Blackman,
Catharine Witherill,
Ruth Hall,
Alice Hall.
Sylvina Booth,
Sally Brown,
Patience Mitchell,
Ruth Turney,
Susannah Tupler,
William L. Peet,
Seth Turney,
Maria Nichols,
Sally Hubbell,
John Feeley,
Zilpha Feeley,
Tracy Freeman,
Diana Lewis,
EfTa Freeman."

Bridgeport. 665

" The following is a review of church enterprises :

" Before the church at Pequonnock was abandoned in
1821, a room was procured for holding Methodist meetings
in the borough in what was then called the New Block, at
the corner of Main and State streets, over the drug store.
This place appears to have been procured mainly by the
efforts of Nathaniel Ruggles, who had been converted a few
years previous under the labors of the Rev. Benoni English,
at the Pequonnock Church. From my best information I
conclude this hall was first occupied by our people in the
winter of 182 1 and 2, and that John N. Maffit then held a
series of meetings in it.

"In the year 1822 measures were taken for the erection
of our first house of worship in this city. The members of
the society were first organized into an ecclesiastical body
according to law, June 30, 1821, and the principal members
are stated in the warrant to have been Nathaniel Ruggles,
Burr Penfield, Agur Bassett, Richard Fuller and Stephen
Durand.

"At the first meeting, held for the purpose of organiza-
tion, Stiles Nichols, long and favorably known as the editor
of the Republican Farmer, acted as chairman ; N. Ruggles
was chosen clerk; and A. Bassett, John P. McEwen, and R.
Fuller were chosen the trustees.

"On the nth of February, 1822, the meeting voted to
proceed in the erection of a house of worship, and N. Ruggles
was entrusted with all the business necessary to be done in
the matter. The site of the church was located at a meeting
held May 13, 1823, and the house, though for some years
remaining unfinished, was occupied for worship the latter
part of that year, Mr. Maffit preaching the first sermon in it.
The trustees at the time of its erection were Charles H.
Wakeley, J. P. McEwen, B. Penfield, Abram S. Smith, and
Elias A. Hall. That church stood on the site of the present
one. It was forty by sixty feet, and its cost, with the lot, was
about three thousand dollars. That house stood about twenty-
six years, and in 1849 ^^ was burned. Measures were imme-
diately taken to erect the present church edifice, and while it
was being built the society worshiped in Wordin's Hall, at

666 History of Stratford.

the corner of State and Water streets. On the 14th of Feb-
ruary, 1850, this house was dedicated — the Rev. Dr. Durbin
and the Rev. Allen Steele preaching on the occasion. At its
completion a debt of about nine thousand dollars remained,
which was paid in i860, Mr. Eben Fairchild generously giving
half the sum upon the rest being raised by others.

"The first Sunday school in connection with this society
was organized during the conference year commenceing in
1828. The records of this school were burned with the
church in 1849."

The pastors in this church since 1862 have been: 1862
and 3, John Mi ley ; 1864 and 5, Ichabod Simmons; 1866 and
7, Frank Bottome ; 1867, 8 and 9, James M. Carroll; 1870,
John Dickenson; 1871, 2 and 3, S. H. Piatt; 1874, 5 and 6,
Daniel O. Ferris; 1877, 8 and 9, George A. Hubbell ; 1879, ^o
and 81, Charles E. Harris; 1881 and 82, H. Q. Judd ; 1883, 4,
5, W. W. Clark."

The Washington Varh Methodist Episcopal Church

was organized September 12, 1853. The first church edifice
was erected on the corner of Barnum and Noble streets, and
was completed and occupied in the same year. Its original
cost was four thousand dollars, but in 1867 it was enlarged
and improved at an expense of eleven thousand dollars. This
structure was removed in 1883, and a commodious brick edi-
fice erected on the old site, with a chapel and parlor rooms
adjoining, for Sunday school and social meetings. The cor-
ner-stone of this edifice was laid May 23, 1883, and the dedi-
cation services were held March 30, 1884. Their present
pastor is the Rev. Edwin G. Blake.'*

The Tabernacle Methodist JEpisco/Kil C7iu7*c7i was

founded in July, 1873. In March, 1874, the house of worship,
which stands on North Main street, at the foot of Frank street,
was completed, and in the following month the Rev. A. B.
Sanford was appointed its pastor. His successors have been
the Rev. S. H. Smith, the Rev. David Osborn, the Rev.

'"' This historical sketch is taken from a record made in the church book by
the Rev. D. O. Ferris, the pastor, at the time, 1878 or 9.

'* After the type were set for this history a pamphlet was obtained containing
a full account of the church.

Bridgeport. 66"/

Joseph R. Dumble, who commenced his hibors here in March,
1880. The cost of the church edifice, including- the lot, was
about $4,500. Their present pastor is the Rev. O. F. Tree.

The African Methodist JEjnscopal Chcix>els are two,
located on Broad, near Whiting street. The older, or Bethel
Church, was built in 1835 ; the j^ounger and larger, known as
Zion Church, was completed, as a tablet over the door informs
the passer by, in June, 1843. These churches hold regular
church and Sunday school services.

The German 3Iethodist Ej^iscopal Church is located
on East Main street, and the Rev. Gustave Bobolin is pastor.

A Stillivellite Methodist Church had an existence
several years in Bridgeport. The Stillwell itinerant ministers
commenced preaching here, at Zoar Bridge, and in Derby in
182 1 or 2. Their services here were held in the old Congre-
gational meeting house, at the corner of North and Park
avenues, which had been several years occupied by the
Methodist Episcopal Church of Bridgeport. Their ministers'
names were David P. Candill, Lounsbury, and Brewer. The
Rev. Mr. Tuckerman came in 1824 and remained about five
years, when the society was merged into the Methodist
Episcopal Church. There was a class formed of the Still-
wellites and a leader appointed. The following were some
of the members: Anson Bradley, of Toilsome Hill, Samuel
Hodges, of Bridgeport, Joel Mitchell and wiie,, Mills Middle-
brook and wife, Benjamin Bennett, Mrs. Isaac Odell, Capt.
Thomas Brothvvell and wife.

The meetings were attended by the community, and Mr.
Tuckerman was much esteem.ed, and was supported by mem-
bers of various churches living in that neighborhood. He
afterwards joined the Congregational church, and preached a
time in Poughkeepsie, N. Y., where he died in the pulpit.

After Mr. Tuckerman left, a Protestant Methodist came
and preached a short time. Lorenzo Dow preached in this
old church to crowded congregations, the capacity of the
house being such as to seat about four hundred.'*

" For all the particulars of this Stillwell Church, see manuscript of Mr. S. M,
Main, deposited with the Fairfield County Historical Society.

668 History of Stratford.

The Hehreiv congregation (JBenai Israel), in Bridge-
port, was organized September 19, 1859, the first minister
being the Rev. A. Jacobs, and the place of worship No. 35
Wall street. The ministers have changed frequently. For a
time the congregation met at Freedman's Building, on State
street opposite the court house, but it now meets every Fri-
day evening at seven o'clock and every Saturday morning at
eight o'clock, in the Curtis Building, 483 Main street. The
Rev. Gustav Gumpel is the pastor.

The Advent Christian Church of Bridgeport was
organized in November, 1849, with fourteen members, and
has maintained regular services ever since, on Sunday and
week-day evenings, although most of the time without a
pastor. About eighty members have been added since the
church was formed. The place of meeting is Temperance
Hall, on Beach street.

The Church of Christ in Bridgeport have held meet-
ings since the year 1871, but were not formally organized as
a church until August 23, 1874, under the leadership of Dr.
W. A. Belding, of Troy, N. Y. The meetings were at first
held in a private house, but for several years past they have
been conducted in the hall at No. 356 Main street, on Sunday
and two week-day evenings. The church has had no regu-
larly installed or employed pastor, but has had the service of
revivalists, especially that of Charles Abercrombie, in May,
1880.

St, Augustine's Church — Catholic. — The Rev. Father
McDermott was the first Catholic priest who celebrated mass
in Bridgeport. This was in the house of Mr. Farrell, on
Middle street, in the year 1834, there being then about
eighteen Catholic families residing in this city. Soon after-
wards, by order of Bishop Fenwick, the Rev. James Smith
visited Bridgeport once a month for the purpose of holding
services. He built the brick church which stood on the
corner of Arch street and Washington avenue, and the
church was called St. James's Church. The Rev. Michael
Lynch was the first settled pastor of this church and of the
Catholic people in Bridgeport, and received his appointment
here in December, 1842.

Bridgeport. 669

On September 2, 1852, the Rev. Thomas J. Synnot was
appointed by Bishop O'Reilly pastor of this church. Soon
after his arrival he commenced building the church of St.
Mary, on Crescent avenue, in East Bridgeport, and finished
it in the following year. In this same year he began St.
Thomas' Church, at Fairfield, and finished it in 1854. In
1864, the brick church on Washington avenue having become
too small, the foundation of the present edifice was laid on
the corner of Washington avenue and Pequonnock street.
This church, which is the largest in Bridgeport, was named
St. Augustine Church and dedicated March 17, 1867, and
cost about one hundred thousand dollars. It is built of gray
granite from the quarries of North Bridgeport. It is intended
to carry the spire about ninety feet higher than its present
termination, making it far the highest object in the city, and
the more so because of its location on Golden Hill. The
whole number of Catholics embraced in the St. Augustine
parish is about four thousand souls, and the average attend-
ance at mass is estimated to be three thousand. The Sunday
school contains about six hundred and fifty members. The
amount raised for church purposes, parish expenses, and
buildings, during the pastorate of twenty-eight years of the
Rev. Father Synnot, cannot be far from a quarter of a million
dollars.

Adjoining this church on the west is a large, imposing
structure, built of granite from Plymouth, Conn., which is
the home of the Sisters of Mercy and an academy for young
ladies. It was completed in 1881 and cost about the same as
the church.

Church of Sacred Ifeart of Jesus'wa.s erected in the
year 1884, on Myrtle avenue near Prospect street. It is built
of brick with granite trimmings, in the equilateral Gothic style,
large and commodious, the ceiling being vaulted and groined.
Rev. Dennis J. Cremin is the pastor.

St, Mary's Church — Catholic — of Bridgeport, is loca-
ted on the corner of Pembroke and Steuben streets, and is a
fine brick edifice with stone basement. This church was
commenced as an out mission of St. James's, now St. August-

6/0 History of Stratford.

ine's, and was a frame building located on the corner of Cres-
cent avenue and Church street, erected in 1854. The first
missionaries to this church were the Reverends M. O'Neil,
P. Lamb and Dr. Wallace. The first pastor was the Rev.
Peter A. Smith, installed in April, 1857, who built the par-
sonage house and continued pastor until February 10, 1862.
He afterwards died while pastor at Norwalk, Conn. He was
succeeded by the Rev. Francis J. Lenihan, who continued
pastor until November i, 1866, when he was transferred to
Woonsocket, R. 1., where he died. He was followed by the
Rev. Richard O. Gorman, who served until October 6, 1867,
and was succeeded by the Rev. Thomas Dea, who continued
to his death, July 23, 1873. These all ministered in the old
church. The Rev. John F. Rogers was transferred from
Newtown, Conn,, where he was pastor five years, to this
parish the Sunday following the decease of Father Dea. He
was graduated at Mount St. Mary's College, at Emmetsburgh,
Md. He commenced the new church edifice in June, 1874,
located on the corner of Pembroke and Steuben streets, the
corner-stone was laid May 16, 1875, and the house was dedi-
cated October 14, 1877, by the late Bishop Galbury. The
edifice is built in the Romanesque style, the basement of
stone and the superstructure of brick, 74 feet front on Pem-
broke street and 154 feet in length, with a spire 187 feet in
height. Its principal ornament inside is a Roman altar 35
feet in height. The basement is 14 feet in height, completed
and occupied as a Sunday school room and for the meeting
of various societies connected with the church. The parson-
age was built in 1881, adjoining the church on the south, the
lot extending to Sherman street.

The old church edifice has been remodeled into a paro-
chial school building, the school being taught by the Sisters
of Mercy, residing in the old parsonage adjoining. Mr. Rog-
ers was the first to introduce the Sisters into Bridgeport.
This parish, including West Stratford, now contains about
three thousand souls.

The assistant pastor is the Rev. J. C. O'Connell, and the
trustees are Patrick Cullen, John Flood; the committee,
Martin Lee, John B. Sullivan, Martin Quinlan, Patrick Gil-

Bridgeport. 671

martin, Thomas McGovern ; organist, Sister Mary Burk-
mans ; the superintendents of the Sunday school are the
Sisters of Mercy.

The Gevif¥ian Catliolic Church was organized in De-
cember, 1874, and for a time held religious services in a hall
in Wheeler's Building, on Main street. From this they re-
moved to the building No. 449 Main street. The present
house of worship, on Madison avenue near Washington, was
commenced in October, 1878, and completed in April of the
following year, at a cost, including the lot, of eight thousand
dollars. The Rev. Joseph A. Schaele, of New Haven, has
been the pastor from the organization of the church to the
present time. There were at first twenty-five families in the
congregation, which now numbers seventy-five families, or
about three hundred persons. The Sunday school has one
hundred members. Mass is celebrated and a sermon preached
every Sunday morning, the pastor returning to New Haven
at the conclusion of the services.

The Parlz Street Congreffational Church is located
on the corner of Park and Barnum streets, fronting Washing-
ton Park. A movement toward the organization of a Congre-
gational church in that part of the city of Bridgeport lying
east of the Pequonnock river, was made in November, 1867.
The first meeting to consider the subject was held on the 22d
of that month at the house of Mr. W. E. Smith, corner of
Barnum and William streets. The Rev. B. B. Beardsley, of
the First Congregational Church, and Mr. Thomas Lord, of
the Second, were present and offered to hire the Bethesda
Mission Chapel — now the East Washington avenue Baptist
Church — for at least one year, for the use of a Congregational
church, should one be formed, and in view of this proposition
it was thought advisable to occupy the chapel, and the Rev.
Joel H. Linsley, D.D., of Greenwich, was engaged to preach
on four Sundays.

The first public services were held November 24, 1867,
and on the i6th of December following a meeting was held in
the basement of the Bethesda Chapel, at which it was " Re-
solved, as the sense of this meeting, that it is expedient to

6/2 History of Stratford.

take measures for organizing a Congregational church in East
Bridgeport." A council was accordingly called on the 15th
of January, 1868, to devise respecting the matter, and if
deemed expedient, to assist in the organization of a church.
The council when convened voted that it was desirable to
form a church, and proceeded in the formal services to that
end. The church thus constituted, consisted of thirty-nine
members, of whom twenty-three had been dismissed from the
First Church, five from the Second Church, five from the
church in Newington, three from the church in Westport,
two from the church in Monroe, and one from the Chapel
street church of New Haven.

On the 19th of March, 1868, Andrew L. Winton and
James P. Bishop were elected deacons of the new church, and
on the first day of Jul}^ Mr. John G. Davenport, of Wilton,
having supplied the pulpit for three months, and received a
unanimous call to its pastorate, was ordained and installed
pastor of the church and society.

A site for a house of worship having been purchased on
the corner of Park and Barnum streets, the corner-stone of a
church edifice was laid November i, 1870. Services were
held in the Bethesda Chapel until the ist of July, 1871, when
the basement of the new edifice was occupied, and on the 17th
of October the church, having cost about $25,000, was dedi-
cated to the worship of Almighty God.

Until the close of the year 1871 the church was under the
fostering care of the Connecticut Home Missionary Society,
when it became self-supporting.'"

The following have served as deacons, each retiring at
the end of four, five or six years, the present rule being that
each term expires at the end of four years, any one being
eligible to reelection after an interval of one year: Andrew
L. Winton, James P. Bishop, Charles M. Minor, David
Wooster, Harmon Lane, James P. Bishop, Charles M. Minor,
Frederick W. Storrs, David Wooster, James P. Bishop,
Charles M. Minor.

The success of this church has been very marked and

'° Historical sketch in the Church Manual, printed in 1881.

Bridgeport. 673

continuous to the present time. Mr. John G. Davenport was
ordained its pastor July i, 1868, and labored with much suc-
cess until the summer of 1881, when he was dismissed to
accept a call to the Second Congregational Church of Water-
bury, where he was installed November 9, 1881. His suc-
cessor was the Rev. George S. Thrall, who was installed in
October, 1881, and after nearly three years of very acceptable
service was dismissed, at his own request, on account of ill
health.

The Rev. Frederick E. Hopkins, the present pastor, was
installed March 26, 1884, and the prosperity of the church is
continued. During the summer of 1885 an addition was made
to the church edifice and considerable changes in the audience
room, at a cost of about $2,500.

Olivet Church (Congregational). — About the year 1866
a mission Sunday school was commenced by members of the
First Congregational Church and others in the northern part
of the city. The school met at first in the upper story of No.
114 North Washington avenue, afterwards at Olivet Hall,
upon the corner of Grand street. After some time the school
developed into the church now known as Olivet Congrega-
tional Church, which was formally organized by a council
convened for the purpose, November 16, 1870, and on Decem-
ber 14, 1870, the Rev. DeForest B. Dodge was ordained pas-
tor, and he resigned October 11, 1871, and letters of dismis-
sion w*ere granted to forty-nine members of this church to
join him in forming a new ecclesiastical body. His success-
ors as the pastors of Olivet Church have been : the Rev. S.
Hopkins Emory, April, 1872; the Rev. Allen Clark, Septem-
ber, 1874; the Rev. John S. Wilson, August, 1879. The
building now used by the society, on the corner of Main
street and North avenue, was completed and occupied for
worship December 24, 1876. It cost, including the site,
about $3,500. The Rev. S. D. Gaylord became pastor of
this church November 8, 1882, and died in office December
31, 1884. Mr. Edwin R. Holden, of Yale Divinity School,
commenced the supply of the pulpit in March, 1885, and was
ordained pastor June 9, 1885. This church has received
assistance largely from the First Congregational Church and

6/4 History of Stratford.

to some extent from other churches, for many years. It is
under the care and aid of the Connecticut Home Missionary
Society.

Tlie Colorado Street Chapel is located in the western
part of the city. About the end of February, 1884, a mission
Sunday school was commenced under the auspices of the
First Presbyterian Church, which at the end of the year they
relinquished, and in May, 1885, it became a branch of the
Sunday school of the First Congregational Church, under the
charge of an assistant superintendent. The school met at
first in an unoccupied store on State street, then in a cottage
on Howard street, but the Congregational church decided at
once to build a chapel, and land on Colorado street was
purchased on the nth of May, and a building erected. This
was done by the Rev. C. R. Palmer and Col. Charles H,
Russell, acting for the standing committee of the church.
This chapel was completed September 8th and dedicated Sep-
tember 13th, with appropriate services. It was occupied by
the Sabbath school from that date. As soon as a gas pipe
had been laid through the street, so that the building could
be lighted, services were held on Sabbath evenings, and these
have continued until the present time." Until January i, 1886,
the pulpit was supplied by various gentlemen, under the
direction of Mr. Palmer. From that date Mr. Robert W.
Sharp became the stated supply. He is a member of the
senior class in Yale Divinity School, to graduate in May next.
The chapel has been conveyed by the builders to the First
Congregational Church (an incorporated body), in the expect-
ation that it will be conveyed ultimately to a religious society
at the west end. It is valued at $4,200, with its contents.

Mr. James L. Harlem was the original superintendent of
the school, when it was in Presbyterian hands, and has been
continued in office by the Congregationalists. The success of
it is largely due to the energy and enthusiasm which he has
displayed from the beginning.

The First Baptist Church in Bridgeport was consti-
tuted September 20, 1837, with thirty-nine members. At that
time the population of the city was about three thousand, and

Bridgeport. 675

the only Baptist church then within ten miles was at Strat-
field, three miles distant, which was under the pastoral care
of the Rev. James H. Linsley, who resided in Stratford.
There were but three or four Baptists residing in the city,
one of whom, Miss Hannah Nichols, a devoted and active
member of the Stratfield church, about the year 1835 pro-
posed the purchase of land upon which to erect a church in
the future. There were three brothers, named Whitney, also
members of the Stratfield church, residing about a mile from
the city, who had frequently consulted together, and with
Miss Nichols, the Rev. Mr. Linsley, and others, upon the
practicability of establishing a Baptist church in Bridgeport.
They were all waiting for a providential opening to enable
them to accomplish that object, when the way was opened,
sooner than they expected, by the offer of the Episcopal
society to sell their church edifice, on the corner of State and
Broad streets, for $3,650. Mr. Linsley circulated the subscrip-
tion paper until he secured $3,000, and paid it to the Episco-
pal society, and a deed was received August 8, 1835, During
this time a meeting was called and on July 24, 1835, a Baptist
society was organized, composed of six members, namely :
Benjamin Wakeman, Raymond, Roswell, Bennett Whitney,
and two other persons whose names are not known.

It was expected that the Rev. Mr. Linsley would accept
the pastorate, but failing health compelled him to relinquish
preaching, and the services of the Rev. Wm. W. Evarts, then
a student in Madison University, were temporarily secured.
Public worship commenced in the church April 23, 1837, but
five weeks afterwards Mr. Evarts returned to his studies, and
the church being unable to procure a permanent pastor,
public worship was discontinued until the latter part of 1838,
when the Rev. James W. Eaton, of Boston, became the first
settled minister of the church, and thus continued for two and
a half years, laboring faithfully and zealously until March 26,
1840, when he removed to Springfield, Mass. During his
ministry the church prospered and increased its membership
from 39 to 106. On the i8th of September, 1840, a unanimous
call was extended to the Rev. Daniel Harwington, of Fort
Ann, N. Y., and he became pastor of the church on the 3d of

6y6 History of Stratford.

the following month. He resigned October i6, 1842, the
church having then 123 members. The next pastor was the
Rev. William Smith, of Camden, N. J., who was settled here
Nov. 21, 1842, and remained until July 8, 1845, during which
time the church suffered severely by many of its members
embracing the teachings of Millerism ; but toward the close
of his ministry many new converts were added to the church,
through the labors of the Rev. Jacob Knapp.

The church was without a pastor from that time until
January 3, 1846, when the Rev. William Reid was settled,
after having previously occupied the pulpit for two or three
months, and he continued in the pastorate for more than eight
years, closing his labors May 28, 1854. At this time the num-
ber of members was reported to be 225. During this ministry
the house of worship was repaired and the church debt liqui-
dated, but towards the close of his service a division arose
among its members which resulted, afterwards, in the forma-
tion of the second Baptist church of Bridgeport. After the
resignation of Mr. Reid, June i, 1854, the church extended a
call to the Rev. J. R. Storrs, of New York, who accepted it,
but after supplying the pulpit a few Sundays, resigned. A
call was then extended to the Rev. W. C. Richards, who
accepted, but resigned without entering upon his pastoral
duties. The Rev. A. G. Palmer, D.D., then became the
pastor of the church, and the formation of the second Baptist
church, which now took place, greatly enfeebled the church
and discouraged the new pastor. He commenced his pastor-
ate October, 1855, and resigned September 27, 1857. The
Rev. J. L. Hodge, D.D., succeeded him and labored for the
church three years, commencing in November, 1857. During
his ministry a new house of worship, commodious and sub-
stantial, was erected, and the church was placed in a better
position for prosperity. Dr. Hodge labored earnestly, not
only in his regular ministrations, but to bring about a union
of the two churches, and to complete the new edifice. After
the removal of the Rev. Dr. Hodge the church extended a
call to the Rev. A. McGregor Hopper, D.D., who had just
closed his labors with the Baptist church at Auburn, N. Y.
He accepted the call and commenced his pastorate in March,

Bridgeport, 677

1861. Soon after the settlement of Dr. Hopper the second
church disbanded and most of its members returned to the
first church. Through the efforts of Dr. Hopper the debt
remaining on the new edifice was paid, and he found much
success in his work. The membership was increased to 331.
Dr. Hopper resigned September i, 1877, the Rev. M. H,
Pogson became the settled pastor January 30, 1878, and
labored with much success until January 2, 1884, when he
resigned to accept a pastorate in New York City. The Rev.
Wm. V. Garner was settled as pastor in this church June 4,
1884, being the present minister. The deacons of this church
are: W. E. Payson, M. E. Morris, Albert Wisner and Louis
Skinner. The present membership is 364.

The WashingtOTi Avenue Baptist Church was or-
ganized January 30, 1874, with forty-seven members, the Rev.
C. W. Ray being the first pastor. The price paid for the
church edifice and lot, which fronts on Washington Park, and
originally belonged to the Bethesda Mission Sunday school,
was $10,000, and about $3,500 additional, were expended in
repairs and improvements. The Rev. Charles Coleman was
pastor some years, but resigned in 1885. The Rev. W. M.
Ingersoll is the present pastor, and the deacons are : P. J.
Black, C. W. Scarrit, J. H. Gunn, and C. W. Beers.

St. JPauVs Church (Episcopal), was organized June 4,
1858, at the house of William H. Noble, on Stratford avenue,
and the Rev. G. S. Coit, D.D., of St. John's Church, was
chosen rector. The Sunday school met, at first, in the coal
office of D. W. Thompson, near the east end of the Centre
Bridge, afterwards in rooms over a store upon the corner of
Crescent avenue and East Main street. The Rev. N. S.
Richardson, D.D., was the first settled pastor of this parish,
his ministry beginning in January, 1868. The corner-stone
of St. Paul's Church, a handsome stone building upon Kos-
suth street, fronting Washington Park, was laid by Bishop
Williams, October 6, 1868; the edifice was dedicated and
occupied for worship July 29, 1869, but not consecrated until
May 18, 1880. It cost about thirty thousand dollars. Di".
Richardson, in addition to parochial duties, was editor of the

678 History of Stratford.

"Church Guardian," a newspaper published in New York
City, the Rev. George S. Pine assisting him in the care of the
parish. The other pastors have been Rev. M. Clark, Rev.
James O. Drum, and the incumbent, Rev. Mildridge Walker.

The Church of the Medee^ner (Universalist), was or-
ganized in 1850, and the brown stone edifice on Fairfield
avenue, near Broad street, originally known as the Church
of our Saviour, but now called the Church of the Redeemer,
was dedicated near the close of the following year. The Rev.
Olympia Brown — afterwards Mrs. Olympia Brown Willis —
was pastor of this church from 1869 to 1875. The Rev. John
Lyon,'* the present pastor, was settled here December 3, 1876.
The cost of the house of worship, including the site, was
$34,000. The trustees of this church are: P. T. Barnum,
James Staples, Jerome Orcutt, G. W. Longstaff, Benjamin
Fletcher, Albert R. Lacey.

Public Schools.

The inhabitants in that part of Fairfield which afterwards
became Pequonnock had established a school as early as
1678, and petitioned the court to release them from paying
school rates at Fairfield village. At that time the inhabitants
in the Stratford part of Pequonnock sent their children to
the Pembroke school at Old Mill, and thus the schools con-
tinued until the Stratfield society was established in 1691,
when it took charge of all school interests within its bounda-
ries." A school house, probably the second, was built in
1703, near the junction of the present Park avenue and
Pequonnock street. Among the first teachers of those times
was William Rogers, whose agreement with the committee,
Samuel Hubbell and Benjamin Fayerweather, made in 1710,
is still extant. A noted master after this, for many years,
was John Wheeler, whose salary in 1736 for teaching a sum-
mer school was £62,. The second school was formed in 1738,
and the house built near the present Toilsome Hill school
house in Fairfield. In 1766 the Stratfield society was divided
into three districts, called the North, Middle and South.

21 See biographical sketch of Mr. Lyon.
-■2 See pages 472-4 of this book.

Bridgeport. 679

The schools continued to be managed by the committees
chosen annually by the parish until 1796, when a school
society was formed in accordance with a law enacted the
previous year, which provided that the interest on moneys
received from the sale of the lands of the " Western Reserve
should be paid school societies respectively." These lands
were sold for $1,200,000, which formed the foundation of the
present State school fund. This society continued until 1856,
when, with the other school societies in the State, it was
abolished and its property and obligations transferred to the
town. In 1801 there were five districts, called Bridgeport,
Old South, Island Brook, Toilsome and North.

In 1841 authority was given by the State to the Stratfield
society to maintain a school exclusively for colored children.
Such a school was organized by the Bridgeport district,
which occupied a building on Gregory street until 1871,
when the school was transferred to a room in a wing of the
Prospect street school house, which had recently been built.
This was continued as a separate ungraded school until the
fall of 1876, when the pupils were placed in their proper
grades in the different rooms of the same building.

In 1858 the Bridgeport district, after an exciting discus-
sion, voted to abolish the bills for tuition, or "rate bills," as
they were called. This was ten years before the law was
enacted by the State making it compulsory upon all the
towns to support free schools.

When Bridgeport was incorporated as a town in 1821
there were two school districts in the territory east of the
Pequonnock river. The northern one, called Pembroke, was
established in 1717," the house being erected some years later
on Old Mill Green, where one still stands, and is in use. The
other district was called New Pasture Point, and built its
school house in 1796. In 1859 it erected the brick building
on Nichols street, which is still in use.

In 1870 the Black Rock district was transferred from
Fairfield to Bridgeport.

Some of the above districts were divided and new ones

^^ See page 280 of this book.

68o History of Stratford.

formed at different times, so that in 1876 there were eleven
school districts in the town of Bridgeport.

During the year 1875 Mr. Henry T. Shelton published
several articles in the " Standard" in favor of consolidating
the public schools. These articles awakened a general inter-
est in the subject, which was discussed and so agitated that,
although there was great opposition to the measure, yet the
town of Bridgeport, at its annual meeting April 3, 1876, voted
to consolidate its eleven district schools under one govern-
ment, by a majority of 172 votes in a total of 3,998 cast; and
on Tuesday, April 11, 1876, the following named persons
were elected a school committee: Andrew Burke, James
Staples, Frederick W. Zingsen, Henry T. Shelton, James C.
Loomis, Daniel H. Sterling, Augustus H. Abernethy, Edward
Sterling, George W. Bacon, Joseph D. Alvord, David Gi-
nand, Julius S. Hanover. These persons met and organized
under the name and title of the " Board of Education." They
divided themselves into three classes, the terms of office of
the first four to expire in one 3^ear, the next four in two years,
and the next four in four years. They elected James C.
Loomis, president ; Daniel H. Sterling, vice-president ; Hen-
ry T. Shelton, secretary, and subsequently, Henry M. Har-
rington, superintendent. In the practical working of the new
system it was found at the end of the first year that the money
expended was more than $10,000 less per year than under the
old system.

On the first day of March, 1877, the first death of a mem-
ber of the board occurred, as seen by the following record :

"As co-laborer with the late Hon. Daniel H. Sterling,
vice-president and chairman of the finance committee of the
Board of Education, we desire to testify to his earnest and
thorough work with us in the advancement of public schools,^
and herewith express our high appreciation of his valuable
counsel and advice from our organization until the present
time." It is also recorded that on the nth day of July, 1877,
the resignation of Joseph D. Alvord, on account of ill health,
was accepted with sincere regrets.

During the first year of consolidation the establishment
of the public high school was another of the important ad-

Bridgeport. 68 1

varices made. The adjustment of the financial interests be-
tween the districts and the town was the most difficult part
of the work. This was done by placing all the accounts in
the hands of a committee consisting of R. B. Lacey, M. B.
Beardsley, and James King, as auditors, whose exhaustive
report became the basis of a full and satisfactory settlement.

On March 5, 1877, Edward W. Marsh was elected in place
of Daniel H. Sterling, deceased, and on September 16, 1877,
another memorial entry was made on the records: "Death
has again visited our board during the year and removed the
first president, the Hon. James C. Loomis, one of the warm-
est friends of education in the State, and member of the State
Board of Education at the time of his death. His memory
we will ever cherish, remembering his worth to us, and ten-
dering our warmest sympathy to the widow, who, more than
any other, is bereaved."

On August 13, 1877, Daniel N. Morgan succeeded J. D.
Alvord, resigned, and on October 8th of the same year David
M, Read succeeded J. C. Loomis, deceased, for the remaining
portion of the 3'ear. At the annual election in April, 1878,
the Rev. Thomas J. Synnott was elected for three years, and
Hon. Nathaniel Wheeler for one year, to fill a vacancy.

On June 21, 1877, Island Brook school house was burned
and the present brick structure was immediately erected on
the old site. On November 12, 1877, Julius S. Hanover was
elected president, and F. W. Zingsen, vice-president. Ed-
ward Sterling resigned March 12, 1879, on account of business
engagements, and the board made the following entry : "Ver-
ily ! in him we have lost a co-laborer — a member of the board
since its organization — whom at all times we have found true
to the great and important duty of educating the youth of his
native city." George C. Waldo was elected in place of Mr.
Sterling for the balance of the year; and during the summer
of that year the new heating apparatus was put into the
Prospect school building, and a training school for teachers
was established. On October 27, 1879, Edward W. Marsh
was elected secretary of the board. At the spring election of
1880, Peter W. Wren and George C. Waldo were elected for
three years, and following them the following persons have

682

'History of Stratford.

Bridgeport. 683

been elected, most of them to serve three years: Rev, Caspar
Brunner, Frederick Hurd, Henry Cowd, Warren W. Porter,
Marshall E. Morris, Emory F. Strong, Morris B. Beardsley,
Thomas F. Martin, John H. Colgan.

The completion of the high school building, on Congress
street, in October, 1882, and its opening for school purposes,
was the marked educational event of the year. Its novel plan
for heating and ventilating was a departure from the com-
monly accepted theories, and its practical utility has been
demonstrated during the four years since, as the best in the
State, if not in the nation. The building has been visited by
experts from all parts of the country, and the plan of heating
and ventilation has been adopted by school boards, not only in
this State, but in Vermont, Massachusetts, and New York.
It was built under the supervision of a committee chosen on
the part of the town and one from the Board of Education.
These committees were identical and consisted of the follow-
ing persons: Julius S. Hanover, Nathaniel Wheeler, Edward
W. Marsh, and George C. Waldo. At the expiration of
E. W. Marsh's term in 1884, he declined a reelection.

The decease of the Rev. Thomas J. Synnot, pastor of the
St. Augustine Catholic Church, April 30, 1884, was noticed
by the following: " The Board of Education recognize in the
death of the Rev, Thomas J, Synnot a severe loss to the cause
of education and one which it will be difficult to repair, — a
man of education, tact and ability, and although a clergyman,
still a man without prejudice or bigotry, his was a happy and
tolerant disposition. Being pastor of one church in this city
for more than thirty years, he has so borne himself through
this long period as to endear himself to the entire community.
As a mark of respect and esteem the members of the board
will attend his funeral."

During the summer of 1883 the Washington school house,
on Pembroke street, was repaired, new heating apparatus
placed in it, and in the autumn the new school building on
the Newtown turnpike was first occupied for school purposes.

Another memorandum is made of the departed: " When
this Board of Education was organized in April, 1876, Au-
gustus H. Abernethy, M.D., was elected a member, and con-

684

History of Stratford.

Willi

■"^m&^M wM

Bridgeport.

685

tinued such until his decease on the evening ot November 9,
1884. We make this tribute to his memory on our records:
Resolved, That in obedience to the will of him who doeth all
things for the best, we bow in humble submission, with the
feeling that this community, and especially the cause of
education in our city, has sustained a great loss; that as an
honorable, upright and highly esteemed citizen and member
of this board, we will ever cherish his memory."

Two new school buildings were occupied at the com-
mencement of the fall term of 1884, one on Myrtle avenue —
school No. 2 — the other on North avenue — school No. 9 —
corner of Oak street, which have commended themselves as
models of convenience and adaptation to school purposes.
They are warmed and ventilated by the same plan as the
high school building, except that the air is warmed by fur-
naces instead of steam coils. The internal arrangement of
these buildings is regarded as very advantageous and com-
mendable. See cuts on the two following pages.

In Januar}', 1885, the Hon. P. T. Barnum donated $1,000,
the income to be expended in the purchase of two gold
medals, to be presented each year to the two students in the
high school who shall write and publicly pronounce the two
best English orations."*

''* Sometimes it is said that the higher grades of schools are maintained for the
benefit of the wealthy classes rather than for the common people. In order to
ascertain how far this view is correct, as applied to this high school, a careful
examination has been made, which shows the following occupations represented
among the parents of the pupils :

Farmers 2

Policemen

Government officer

Town officer

Citj' officer

Bank officer

Doctor

Mechanics 44

Merchants ig

Manufacturers 13

Clerks and salesmen _ 11

Laborers g

Supts. or foremen of factory 7

Contractors 4

Retired from business 4 Keeper of boarding house

Clergymen 4 Photographer

Builders 3 Undertaker--- ,

Teachers 3 Coachman.-.

Laborers 3 Truckman --.

Printers - 2

In addition to the above there were the children of twenty-seven widows in
attendance, making in all one hundred and sixty-seven families represented in the
school. In other words, this high school fairly represents all classes in the city.

686

History of Stratford.

BASEMENT PLAN OF NOS. 2 AND 9.

Bridgeport.

687

PLAN OF FIRST AND SECOND STORIES OF NOS. 2 AND 9.

688 History of Stratford.

The rooms for the accommodation of the Board of Edu-
cation are now in the United Bank Building, corner of Main
and Bank streets, they being very pleasant and commodious.

The population of the town of Bridgeport — including the
city — as estimated by school enumeration, was in 1876-7,
24,745, and in January, 1886, 39,006. In 1876 there were 78
teachers, and in 1886, 120.

The cost per scholar of maintaining the Bridgeport
schools, compared with others in the State as reported by
the State Board of Education for the 3^ear 1884, is as follows:
Hartford, $34.19; Norwich, $23.45; New Britain, $23.35;
New Haven, $22.81; Stamford, $21.41; Norwalk, $20.05;
Meriden, $19.65; Waterbur_y, $19,52; New London, $19.33;
Danbury, $19.17 ; Middletown, $19.03 ; Bridgeport, $15.43.

The officers of the Board of Education for 1885-6 are:
Julius S. Hanover, President; Nathaniel Wheeler, Vice-Presi-
dent; Morris B. Beardsley, Secretary. The members of the
board are: Peter W. Wren, Henry Cowd, Frederick Hurd,
Marshall E. Morris, Morris B. Beardsley, Emory F. Strong,
William B. Hincks, Thomas F. Martin, Julius S. Hanover,
Nathaniel Wheeler, David Ginand, John H. Colgan. H. M.
Harrington, Superintendent of Schools.

The Bridgeport Public Tdhrary and Heading
Mooin has acquired a high position in the estimation and
care of the citizens of Bridgeport, as the beginning of what
they hope to make a large and influential institution of culture
in the city. About sixty years ago a boy wrote some brief
articles which were printed in a newspaper of Bridgeport,
and in them called for a public meeting of citizens for the
purpose of establishing a public library. The meeting was
held by a few persons, the boy being among them, but he did
not at that time let it be known that he wrote the articles
and called the meeting. The result of the meeting was that
a library was established about, perhaps, a )^ear or two before
1830. This library was continued until about 1855, when it
purchased the library of the Calliopean Literary Society of
Yale College, which had disbanded, numbering about 1,000
volumes, and the Bridgeport Library Association was estab-

Bridgeport.

689

lished December 7, 1857. For many years it was supported
as a subscription library, charging a fee for membership and
its privileges.

BURROUGHS PUBLIC LIBRARY BUILDING.

In 1881 Mr. Clarence Sterling, calling upon Mr. John D.
Candee, then editor of the Bridgeport " Standard," requested
that the " Standard" would favor the establishing of a free

690 History of Stratford.

public library, in accordance with a recent law of the State,
granting such libraries to towns and cities, to be supported by
a tax on the grand list." Mr. Candee cheerfully took up the
matter and Mr. Sterling started a petition to the Common
Council of the city. Then upon consultation with Hon. D.
B. Lockwood, president of the old library association, and
others interested in it, that library was offered to the new
project upon condition that the debts of the old society,
amounting to about $800, should be assumed by the new
society, which was accepted. Upon the matter coming
before the Common Council the motion which gave to
Bridgeport a free public library was carried with but one
dissenting vote, and the Mayor, Hon. John L, Wessels,
appointed the following board of officers : W. D. Bishop,
President; John D. Candee, Vice-President; Charles Sher-
wood, Secretary ; William B. Hincks, Treasurer ; and Fred-
erick Hurd, W. J. Hills, S. S. Blake, and Bernard Winghofer,
who held their first meeting July 2, 1881.

By the lamented death of Mr. Winghofer, the removal
from the city of Mr. Blake, and the resignation of the Hon.
W. D. Bishop, three changes have since taken place in the
board. The successors of these gentlemen are A. B. Beers,
Patrick Coughlin, and W. D. Bishop, Jr.

The rooms of the old library association, at 440 Main
street, were altered and enlarged, and on the loth of January,
1882, the Bridgeport Public Library and Reading Room
opened its doors. The first ticket of membership was issued
to P. T. Barnum — occupation, showman — guarantor, James
Staples. By the first of June the new library had 3,193
members, and had circulated 36,547 volumes. The difficulties
arising from the small number of books were tided over by
the gift of a hundred dollars from Mrs. James C. Loomis, and
the purchase by the Hon. P. T. Barnum of a thousand dollars
worth of the best recent works in science and general litera-
ture. The original library hours were from 2 to 10 P. M.
daily ; but it soon became necessary to open the institution
from 9 A. M. to 10 P. M. In November, 1882, at the request of

^^ Manuscript of J. D. Candee.

Bridgeport. 691

many intelligent workingmen, the directors resolved to try
the experiment of Sunday opening, hitherto only attempted
in the New England States by the public libraries of Boston
and Worcester. The change was so greatly appreciated that
in 1884 they determined to conduct the library on the " never-
closing" system, and the reading room is now open every day
in the year.

In January, 1883, Mrs. Catharine A. Pettengill bequeathed
to the public library the valuable property known as the
Burroughs Building, in order that it might be converted into
a permanent home for the institution. The money accruing
from the rental of the building has been left to accumulate
towards paying for its alteration, and it is hoped that the
library will occupy its new quarters by the winter of 1887.

In 1884 the Hon. W. D. Bishop resigned the office of
president, and was succeeded by John D. Candee, Esq., who
had rendered the library much valuable service as vice-presi-
dent and member of the book committee. The career of the
library has been one of unbroken success. During the year
ending July i, 1885, 9i;030 books were circulated for home
use, and 15,160 were consulted in the reading room. The
present membership is above 7,000. The number of volumes
contained in the library is 16,400.^*

Officers of the public library for the year 1885: Presi-
dent, John D. Candee; Vice-President, Frederick Hurd ;
Secretary, Charles Sherwood ; Treasurer, William D. Bishop,
Jr. The present members of the board of directors are:
William D. Bishop, Jr., Frederick Hurd, William J. Hills,
William B. Hincks, Charles Sherwood, Alfred B. Beers,
David B. Lockwood, John D. Candee, Patrick Caughlin.
Librarian, Mrs. Agnes Hills; Assistant Librarian, William J.
Hills; Attendants, Theodore F. Crane, Jr., Robert Bruce
Nelson.

Mev. Henry Jones, son of Daniel and Rhoda (Mather)
Jones, was born in Hartford, Conn., October 15, 1801, gradu-
ated at Yale College in the class of 1820, and graduated at
Andover Theological Seminary in 1824. He married Eliza

^•^ Manuscript ofWilliam J. Hill.

692 History of Stratford.

S. Webster, daughter of Noah Webster, LL.D., September 5
1825, and was ordained pastor of the second society in Berlin
— now the first Congregational society of New Britain
October 12, 1825. He was dismissed at his own request
December 19, 1827, and in the following year opened a select
school for young ladies at Greenfield, Mass., which he con-
ducted with success nearly ten years.

In 1838 he removed to Bridgeport and erected a cottage
he ever afterward occupied on the western slope of Golden
Hill. Here he opened a classical school for young men and
boys, and continued it with much success as to reputation
and income, over thirty years, when he gradually closed his
school and ceased active labor.

When he came to Bridgeport he connected himself with
the First Congregational Church, of which he remained a
valued and useful member until his decease, November 9,
187S. The golden wedding of himself and wife was observe^
in September, 1875, and was a memorable occasion. Hi',
children were: Frances Julia, who married Rev. Thomas Khi
Beecher; Emily Ellsworth, married Daniel J. Day, died Jul
23, 1869, leaving one son, Robert Webster Day, the onl}
grandchild ; Eliza Webster, died in infancy ; Henry Web-
ster, M.D., of Chicago.

Golden Hill Heminavy for young ladies and children
is located on Golden Hill street, an elevated locality, in th
city of Bridgeport; Miss Emily Nelson being the proprietc ^
and principal. Miss Nelson came from New York Cit; 1
purchased the old homestead of Alfred Bishop, and estal^
lished her school here in 1880. The school has a first clasc
standing and reputation in every respect, and the principal is
highly esteemed by the citizens of Bridgeport.

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Full text of "A history of the old town of Stratford and the city of Bridgeport, Connecticut"

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